Order of the National Green Tribunal regarding illegal mining, Goa, 15/10/2019
Order of the National Green Tribunal in the matter of Goa Paryavaran Savrakshan Sangharsh Samitee Vs The Deputy Collector/SDM, Pernem & Others dated 15/10/2019 regarding illegal mining and failure on the part of the mining agency and the state of Goa in closing the mined out areas scientifically.
A joint report filed by the Deputy Collector/SDM and Director of Mines and Geology on April 3, 2019 lacked any mention of the steps taken to scientifically close the mines or of the coercive measure taken against illegal mining. A revised report was thus asked for, which stated that proceeding had been initiated under the Land Revenue Court and the Land Revenue Rules against the offending party for restoration of the land to its original use. It was stated that a compliance report would be furnished in due course of time.
The Tribunal expressed its disappointment at the progress report filed by the Director of Mines and Geology on August 27, 2019 and especially pointed out the suggestion put forward for filling up the mined out pits with solid waste. The NGT grants time to the Mines and Geology Department as well as to the State PCB for submission of a detailed report and imposed a fine of Rs 5 lakhs on the state of Goa for the "absolute laxity and indifference" on the matter.