Truck owners from Sanvordem have welcomed the resumption of mining activities by Fomento Resources Pvt Ltd scheduled from April 16.
They have expressed hope that the activities will revive employment opportunities for over 500 trucks from the Sanvordem region as well as the Capxem belt, which have been awaiting the restart of the mining sector for several months.
Truckers across Goa have long been anticipating the revival of mining operations after enduring prolonged hardship, with many grappling with mounting debts during the extended period of inactivity.
The decision to recommence mining has been largely appreciated by transporters, particularly in Sanvordem, where livelihoods are closely tied to the sector.
At a meeting held on Tuesday, several truck owners also highlighted the challenges that could hinder their immediate return to operations. They stated that the prolonged halt and uncertainty in the mining industry had pushed them into severe financial distress, leaving them unable to resume work without support.
A major concern raised was the continued levy of road tax and green tax during the period when trucks remained idle due to the mining ban, which they described as unjust and burdensome.
The Truck Owners Association members, however, informed that the government has considered their demand for fitness tax and road tax waiver which they claim would be notified soon.
The poor condition of vehicles was another pressing issue, with many trucks lying unused for years and now requiring extensive repairs, including replacement of tyres, batteries and engine servicing.
The owners said they are not in a position to bear these expenses and have urged the government to extend subsidies or advance financial assistance to make the vehicles roadworthy.
Truckers also stressed the importance of a stable and predictable mining schedule, pointing out that past irregularities in operations had made it difficult to sustain their livelihoods.
They have called upon the state government and Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to issue clear notifications on tax waivers and financial relief measures to ensure a smooth and sustainable revival of the sector.
