Valpoi
Illegal stone quarrying reportedly continues across Sattari’s village panchayat areas despite raids, closures and penalties by the Directorate of Mines and Geology, police, revenue officials and Goa State Pollution Control Board. Citizens question why quarries allegedly resume operations after enforcement action and whose patronage allows them to continue.
Residents say quarrying has expanded considerably over the past decade, with several operators allegedly working without necessary permissions. Excavation damages the natural landscape and ecology, while dust and stone-transport vehicles contribute to air pollution, traffic inconvenience and health concerns. Complaints have reportedly been raised and discussed at Gram Sabha meetings, but the problem persists.
Raids, penalties and pending cases
Residents allege that some quarries resume operations within days of raids or closure orders, raising questions about follow-up inspections and enforcement. Penalties worth lakhs of rupees have reportedly been imposed on certain operators, with some dues allegedly unpaid and related cases pending in courts.
Citizens demand disclosure of outstanding penalties, recovery measures, court proceedings and the legal status of operating quarries. They have also sought an impartial investigation into why operations allegedly restart after raids. Allegations of official collusion require supporting evidence.
Government land and pollution concerns
Citizens have raised concerns over alleged illegal extraction on government revenue lands, demanding verification of ownership records, survey numbers, land-use conditions and permissions. Authorities should stop unauthorised extraction and initiate legal proceedings wherever violations are established.
Dust from excavation, stone-breaking and uncovered loads reportedly affects homes, courtyards and vegetation, potentially harming residents, including children and senior citizens. Citizens have urged the Pollution Control Board to assess pollution levels, inspect affected areas and enforce prescribed dust-control measures.
Demand for sustained action
Citizens want details of action taken on complaints and Gram Sabha resolutions, including closure enforcement, inspections and penalty recovery.
They have urged the Directorate of Mines and Geology, police, Mamlatdar, Deputy Collector, Deputy Superintendent of Police and Pollution Control Board to conduct a coordinated special drive across Sattari, verify quarry permissions, recover outstanding dues through legal procedures and close operations where illegal extraction is established.
Residents demand a thorough investigation and sustained enforcement to protect Sattari’s environment, public health and government land.
