Environmental Concerns of Mining Operations and Applicability of Statutes: Goan Perspective

As part of the drive, a webinar on ‘Environmental Concerns of Mining Operations and Applicability of Statutes: Goan Perspective’, was held by Don Bosco College of Engineering- IIC, in online mode to enlighten the students on effect of mining on the ecosystem. The webinar was held on the  December 2, 2021 at 3 pm on google meet platform. The resource person invited to deliver the talk was Dr.  Mohan R Girap, who is a Scientist at Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB). The audience comprised students of Don Bosco College of Engineering. Also present were, the Chairman of GSPCB-Mr. Ganesh Shetgaonkar, IIC DBCE President- Prof Suraj Marathe, IIC committee and other faculty members.

Dr. Mohan commenced the session by stating that there were two ways in which mining is carried out: opencast and underground. He elaborated on the Iron ore supply chain and how the process is undertaken. In his presentation he mentioned that mining operations primarily falls under the purview of a number of Acts/Rules, some of them being: The Mines and Minerals Act, The Water Act, The Air Act etc.

Dr. Mohan also briefed about the statutory requirements for new/renewal of existing mining leases. He spoke extensively on the salient issues connected with environmental management in mining industry. As part of pollution control, he raised awareness on the various control measures with regard to pollution.

The Chairman of GSPCB Mr. Ganesh Shetgaonkar highlighted on the significance of the day 2^nd December. He said, “National Pollution Control Day is observed annually to commemorate those who lost their lives in The Bhopal Gas Tragedy in 1984”.

In conclusion, Dr. Mohan stressed on the importance of adopting an ‘Integrated Approach’ when it comes to complying with all the statutory requirements, in essence, State PCB, Forest Department, IBM etc.

The event was very well received by all and students had an opportunity to learn about the effect mining has on the environment.