DEEP DIVE INTO STONE QUARRY ISSUE

PANAJI

The recurring issue surrounding stone quarries has once again brought to the fore district administration and other government stakeholders’ shortcomings. Despite repeatedly issuing directives to fence and take preventive measures at abandoned quarries, the Collectorate has consistently failed to ensure compliance from the government itself and quarry owners.

Inaction despite fatalities 

Recent deaths once more prompted both the District Collectorates to reiterate their advisory that states, “….prohibit swimming in such waterfalls, abandoned quarries, rivers, lakes, and other water bodies until further orders… local Police Inspector and Mamlatdar are directed to maintain strict vigil in their jurisdiction and enforce this order. Failure to comply with the order shall be liable for penal action under section 188 of the Indian Penal Code and other relevant provisions of law in force.”

However, there remains a stoic silence on what actions will be taken against those who failed to implement necessary safety measures, especially in areas with a history of similar accidents.

In North Goa alone, officials have recorded around 30 or more quarries, while many more are likely operating illegally. With numerous incidents also reported in quarries under the government domain, authorities remain silent on who is accountable for these deaths, given that directives are being blatantly ignored.

Shared responsibility and blame

“Both quarry owners and citizens are responsible. Citizens must ensure they are vigilant and do not venture into dangerous areas. We cannot take onus for private property but citizens are risking their lives by venturing into these areas," a senior government officer told The Goan on condition of anonymity.

“The onus is on both parties, but by virtue of directives, the owner is accountable…"However, holding someone over specific responsibility is difficult. It is a subjective matter,” he quickly clarified.

On the government’s stance, the district collectorate office will prioritize fencing areas under them and is simultaneously in the process of sending letters to stone quarry owners to ensure strict compliance with safety measures.

“Instead of debating over who would be responsible for not adhering to the previous orders, we will focus on mitigation measures. We will grant private quarry owners atleast 30 days to fence their areas,” the officer said.

Fencing of full property or access areas?

“Ideally, not the entire property, but at least the parts where a person can easily access the water or venture into the quarry should be fenced. Moreover, signage should be put up to warn about the potential danger,” a Collectorate official said.

The North Collectorate will likely prioritize fencing numerous quarries in Pernem, followed by those in Bardez and Tiswadi. However, the officials indicated that areas where drowning incidents and casualties have occurred in the past will also receive simultaneous attention.

Govt grants Rs 1.50 cr

The government has been quick to grant each of the two District Collectors Rs 75 lakh grant from the Disaster Management fund to facilitate fencing activities. The proposal was submitted just last week following the distressing incidents.

The Public Works Department (PWD) is also directed to prepare detailed estimates for the fencing project. Meanwhile, the government has sanctioned the use of standard rates until the PWD report.

Sources said that besides the Disaster Management treasury, funds from the District Mineral Foundation can also be utilized if the need arises. 

The Goan contacted North Goa Collector Sneha Gitte, who remained unavailable for comment.