Mining companies gear up to start iron ore extraction in Goa

Following Vedanta, three more mining companies have expressed their intent to resume iron ore extraction activity in the state, a mining exporters' body in Goa has said.

The state's mineral resources companies like Fomento Resources, V M Salgaocar Brothers and Chowgule, etc have confirmed their intent and initiated preparatory acts to begin mining-related activities after the monsoon in September-October this year, Goa Mineral Ore Exporters Association (GMOEA) said in a release.

Vedanta's Sesa Goa has already announced resumption of iron ore extraction at their Codli lease, which was Asia's biggest mining site before mining was shut down in 2012.

"These activities, as in the past, would gain momentum post the Ganesh Chaturthi celebration," GMOEA secretary Glenn Kalavampara said.

Pursuant to the judgement of Supreme Court in April 2014 and High Court in August 2014, both the Central and state governments have acted and complied with the directions of both the courts, he said.

Goa government has renewed the mining leases of 88 mines, all which are under scanner of Accountant General of Goa for failing to obtain clearance from the Indian Bureau of Mines (IBM).