Judgement of the National Green Tribunal regarding clandestine mining and export of the minerals for huge sums by M/s. Sociedade Timblo Irmaos Ltd., 13/01/2015
Judgement of the National Green Tribunal (Principal Bench, New Delhi) in the matter of Goa Paryavaran Savrakshan Sangharsh Samitee Vs M/s. Sociedade Timblo Irmaos Ltd. & Others regarding clandestine mining and export of the minerals for huge sums by M/s. Sociedade Timblo Irmaos Ltd.
The applicant is seeking restoration of extensive damage of the environment and forest area in the ‘Buffer Zone’, close to one of the eco-sensitive Wild Life Sanctuaries, caused by M/s. Sociedade Timblo Irmaos Ltd. and other respondents in all other connected applications. It is the case of the applicant that the State of Goa being a small State, measuring total geographical area of about 3702 sq. kms., any environmental damage to any part of the State of Goa shall adversely affect the environment of the whole State and shall cause serious environmental damage to the residents of Goa.
The Tribunal noted that the applicant is primarily raising the issue in regard to the mine dumps being there within and outside the leased area and that the Tribunal should issue directions in that regard. The other prayer relates to restoration of the damage done to the environment and ecology in the mined area and that the respondents in all these applications should be directed to pay compensation of Rs.1250 Crores or such other amount as the Tribunal may determine.