Iron ore mining in Goa likely to restart from September: industry official

Iron ore mines in Goa are likely to restart operations from September, though approvals to resume operations may arrive in the next two or three months, a top industry official said on Wednesday.

"The state may get approval to reopen its mines in the next two to three months, but actual mining operations will start from September, since environmental clearances and other mandated approvals will take time," Goa Mineral Ore Exporters' Association executive director S Sridhar told PTI.

Even if the approval to reopen mines comes by May, it will not be possible to start operations due to monsoons, he said.

The Supreme Court had banned mining in all 90 mines in Goa from October 2012, due to investigations into alleged illegal mining operations.

The case is being heard by the apex court and miners are hopeful that it will pass its verdict on the matter soon.

Goa, which primarily produces low quality iron ore, had exported around 42 million tonnes in 2011, accounting for 55 per cent of the total exports of metal from the country.

However, the ban on mining has brought much hardship to Goa's economy, since mining is one of key contributors to its finances.

When asked about a cap on iron ore output, Mr Sridhar said there are various recommendations given to the apex court regarding output limit and the court is likely to give its verdict taking into account all reports.

"The Indian School of Mines has recommended something and so has the Goa state government. The Supreme Court appointed panel has also recommended a cap. We hope that the apex court will take into account all recommendations before fixing a cap on iron ore output," he said.