Mining firm accused of releasing silt

  • 14/06/2008

  • Herald (Panjim)

The Gawda Kunbi Velip and Dhangar Federation of Colomba unit on Friday filed a complaint at the Quepem police against a mine operating at Gulkon Donger for releasing polluted water and mining silt into their agricultural fields. In the complaint, a copy of which has been forwarded to the Chief Secretary, Deputy Collector Quepem, DySP Quepem, Executive Magistrate Quepem, Director of Mines, Chief Conservator of Forest, Goa Pollution Control Board, Water Resources Department-Panjim, the federation claimed the incident was witnessed on June 12 at 4 pm. The complaint further notes that run-off from the mine entered into their agricultural land and water network through a nullah. It claims further that the same also entered the Kushawati River. The federation further alleged flow of muddy water was depositing silt into the paddy fields and their very existence was in danger. They demanded immediate action against the mining company. GAKUVED President Rama Velip, who is one of the signatories to the complaint, informed Herald, "Due to the excessive rains during the last couple of days, the situation has only aggravated.'