PANAJI
With the State Budget 2026-27 to be tabled on March 6, Goa’s mining industry has renewed its demand for the revival of the long-delayed dedicated mining corridor project, describing it as critical for the sustainable and efficient functioning of the sector that has only recently resumed operations after years of disruption.
In their pre-budget memorandum submitted to the Chief Minister, the Mineral Industry Chamber bodies emphasised that the proposed corridor -- first mooted in 2011 -- remains vital to streamline ore transportation, reduce pressure on village roads and ensure operational viability.
The proposal was originally conceptualised in 2011 by then Chief Minister Digambar Kamat. However, it failed to materialise due to funding constraints after mining companies declined to finance it. The two-year mining ban imposed in September 2012 further stalled the plan. Initially, the three-phase corridor included Uguem and Guddemol (8.9 km), followed by Guddemol to Capxem (8.4 km) and a 32-km stretch between Cavrem and Uguem.
Industry representatives said the sector, which has slowly resumed after prolonged uncertainty, needs policy stability and infrastructure support to prevent it from becoming unviable.
“The industry has requested assistance in infrastructure, including mining road corridors and improvement in tackling certain navigational obstacles from the high taxes and premiums collected,” they said.
They urged the State to avoid additional levies and to address high taxes, anomalies and issues of double taxation. “The industry appraised the CM about the existing high taxes being attributed to the mineral industry and hence requested from refraining any additional levy but on the contrary correct certain anomalies, double taxation which are erroneous and making the working extremely difficult,” they said.
The memorandum also sought promotion of electric trucks through subsidies and a vehicle scrapping policy for older fleets. “Certain subsidies to kick-start electric trucks as well as phasing out of older trucks which are above 15 or 20 years by a vehicle scrapping policy to decrease carbon emissions,” they said.
The Chamber urged government to hold regular interaction with industry to reduce or curb delays in getting leases or activity operational, after having met all statutory permissions. “Delays contribute to avoidable loss in revenue in the State government and all stakeholders apart from being distorted the clarion move towards ease of doing business,” they maintained.
The chambers further requested prioritised utilisation of DMF and IWAI funds to meet genuine regional and community needs.
