VALPOI
Pissurlem sarpanch Jayashree Parab has feared that the State government’s plans to take over mining would lead to hundreds of villagers losing their livelihoods and has urged the government to reconsider its decision.
Parab stated that mining had been generating hundreds of jobs in the village.
“About 600 trucks from the panchayat area were transporting ore, and a large number of families were earning their livelihood through mining companies. Besides, about 250 villagers were working in mining companies,” said Parab.
“Even after a halt in mining activities in 2012, some mining companies had offered decent salaries to employees.”
“The government plans to take over mining will be a huge blow to families in the mining areas. And could lead to massive unemployment in the village. We implore the State government to reconsider its decision, and I will send a letter to Chief Minister Pramod Sawant in this regard,” Parab added.
The sarpanch said the government’s decision would also affect several small-scale industries and businesses linked to mining.
Small-scale entrepreneurs have expressed concern and said it would severely affect businesses in Honda and other villages in the area.
