INDIA
The reservoir is source of potable water for 55% of the state's population.
The Goa government has finally resolved to shut down the mines pouring manganese and iron ore in the Selaulim reservoir, the source of potable water for 55 per cent of the state population.
Making an announced to this effect, Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar said on Wednesday, "We have to stop all mines operating within the river zone of Selaulim dam that end up pouring in material (iron ore and manganese) into the reservoir."
Situated about 100 km south of Panaji in Sanguem taluka, the Selaulim dam has 19 mining leases operating within few kilometers of its periphery. These mines were permitted based on the wrong facts provided to get environment clearances (from Union Environment and Forest Ministry), he said adding that they have dumped the ore along the Selaulim dam, which is washed in the reservoir.
"Our report indicates at least 15 feet of the usage section of the storage is already filled with mud, that is more serious," the chief minister conceded. Recently, the manganese content in Selaulim water had reached alarming levels. The state PWD had admitted that it was six times more than permissible levels.
Parrikar said although the manganese content has increased in the reservoir, there is nothing to worry about. "All manganese compounds are not soluble in water and though the content is there, it is free floating," said Parrikar, adding that, "The chemical manganese which can be absorbed in the stomach is within control."
While claiming to have warned the state of the harmful effects of the mining operations at Selaulim dam some years ago, environmentalist Ramesh Gawas said the situation has been turning from bad to worse, with illegal mines mushrooming around it. Incidentally, the area around the dam is a part of Netravali wildlife sanctuary, where mining has to be completely banned.
Justice M B Shah commission, a judicial panel which has done extensive study on Goa's iron ore industry, said that they have identified three mines around Selaulim dam area, covering 83 hectares operating since 2003, working without valid mining leases.
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