from Lenny Baretto
for Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji (GA)

Panaji, Jan 30: The report by centre for science and environment, who had fought a battle of pesticide in the aerated water, on Goa's mining scene is something eye opening. The report clearly speaks how Goa's environment is being degraded by the mining firms, who are hell bent to make money, under any circumstances.

The state which is more known for the tourism is also a number one in the entire country for mining iron ore. Mine owners right from the Portuguese era have been digging the mother earth and exporting the ore. This natural resource, which is in abudance, in Goa's earth has proved to be beneficial to state's economy.

The trade which began at a lesser pace gained momentum with the opening of newer international markets. The recent addition is China market, which has given huge impetus to iron ore trade in the state. Of the total 33 million metric tonnes iron ore exported, majority goes to China.

Setting up of steel plants in China has come as a boon for the mine exporters in Goa. The China market has also overtaken traditional Japan market. 

But while all this success stories are being circulated in the state, there is one story that needs to be spoken loud and clear.

Immense loss to the natural vegetation, dust pollution and environment norms disobeyed at every moment, everything is tolerated in the name of mining. The mine owners or exporters find it easy to justify the pollution and violations pointing out to the employment that the sector generates. 

While the mine owners are busy filling their coffers, day-in-and-day-out, the villagers in mine affected areas fight a losing battle. Right from drying of their traditional water harvesting systems to silting of their paddy fields, Goa's agrarian economy is suffering owing to mining.

The CSE report loudly and clearly mentions these ill effects. Sunita Naraian, director, CSE, in her article in the report mentions how she and her colleagues were chased out of the mine when they were photographing the violations.

Mine owners lobby is strong and at times even run the state government. So it's very difficult for the common person to take a fight with them. 

We, the common man, are left with the option to rue in darkness and curse for our fate. If mining is not controlled or regulated, Goa will lose all its charm.