Fearing that the Govt-appointed
panel might recommend a Karnataka-like ban on iron ore exports, Small and independent
miners in Goa have started exploring the possibility of tie-ups with steel
mills outside the state to supply iron ore.
Justice Shah, heading the
commission set up by the Centre, is set to submit the final recommendations by
the end of this month. Shah had earlier said a ban on iron ore exports could be
recommended as an interim measure. Now, another member of the commission,
Justice R A Mehta, has said: “Ban on exports is one of the options being
considered to curb illegal iron ore trade.”
The news has led to a panic among
125 (90 operational and 32 non-functioning) mines in the state. As a result,
miners have started exploring survival options. Many miners were evaluating
options to ensure a continuous sale of iron ore.
The first round of inspection by
the Justice Shah pointed out to several anomalies by mining lease operators.
The second round of inspection, however, is currently in progress.
Meanwhile, in an affidavit filed
before the Goa Bench of Bombay High Court, the Mines and Geology department has
said they are contemplating the possibility of installing Radio Frequency
Identification (RFID) tags on the trucks and at vital points including jetties,
where ore is unloaded in the ship. The department accused the state government
of ignoring the illegal mining trade conceded before the Court that mineral ore
transportation is huge to the tune of 48 million tonnes as in 2010-11 which
takes place within a radius of 30 km.
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