Margao: Mining dependents in the Sanvordem–Kalay belt are seeking priority for local truck owners and the re-employment of retrenched mine workers as transportation of mining dumps in South Goa is expected to begin soon.A delegation of mining dependents recently met the sarpanchs of Sanvordem and Kalay panchayats, seeking their support for the two demands. Their concerns have intensified after five to six mining dumps belonging to a firm at Costi were tendered, with locals fearing that transportation contracts could go to operators from outside the area.“Mining activities have remained closed for the last at least 15 years, and truck owners have remained out of business. We are therefore all elated,” a truck owner said. “But our only demand is that local trucks should be engaged for transportation of the mining dumps.”The truck owner said processing the dumps at mining plants could also create employment opportunities for retrenched mine workers.“The panchayat members have assured us of all support,” he said.Sanvordem sarpanch Chinmayee Naik said the panchayat backed the demands. “The local mining dependents have the support of all panchayat members. We are in support of their demand,” she said.
