the goan I network
MARGAO
Saying that the prolonged wait for a solution to the mining imbroglio has caused economic suffering to the thousands of indirect and direct dependents of the mining industry, South Goa MP Francisco Sardinha has sought the intervention of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure a legally sustainable solution to the issue without any further delay.
Sardinha also rooted for sand extraction in the state in designated sites in the rivers to tide over the sand shortage and make it available to the people at affordable rates.
The South Goa MP told the media in the presence of South district Congress President Joe Dias that he has dashed of a letter to the Prime Minister drawing his attention that Goa has been awaiting a solution to the mining imbroglio for over a year now since the pronouncement of the Supreme Court Judgement dated February 7.
He said the mining industry and its allied activities have come to a grinding halt and warranted the intervention of the Centre to ensure that the thousands of dependents are not rendered jobless.
In his letter, the South Goa MP underscored the importance of the mining industry in Goa, especially as it provides thousands of people with direct and indirect employment, sustaining the livelihoods of Goan families who are dependent on the
industry.
“This industry has been a major contributor to the state’s economy since pre-liberation days of Goa and continued to be so till the stoppage of the same,” he said, adding that the “livelihoods of direct and indirect dependents of this industry are staring at an uncertain future.”
“What the mining dependents have received till date is only the assurances handed out by the state government,” he further wrote.
On sand mining, he said while the government can ban sand mining near the bridge and bunds, designated mining spots should be allowed in the rivers in the interest of the state.
“I hope the ongoing situation will open the eyes of the government to take an appropriate decision,” he added.
Castigating the government for its unfulfilled promises on potholes, Sardinha said the government should not wait for Christmas, but take up the road repair work immediately.
