Goemkarponn Desk
PANAJI: The All-Goa Truck owner’s association (AGTOA) has raised strong concerns over mounting economic losses in the shape of unpaid duties and royalties, seriously impacting the state’s economy. Additionally, the existing situation of mining operations continues to be the reason of distress to the livelihoods of hundreds of people who rely upon this industry for their welfare.
The Mining industry plans to transport three million tons (MT) of ore, including lumps and fines, over the next 8 months. This interprets to the transportation of 12,658 tons a day and 379,740 tons month-to-month of grade is 55-56% ore, comprising of 15% lumps and 85% fines. The situation at present is inflicting considerable financial stress at the state’s economy.
The premiums and royalties as declared by IBM for the respective grade slab of the ore include Rs. 4483 per ton for fines, and Rs. 4356 per ton for lumps. The contributions from these amount to Rs. 127.62 crores each month. Due to the non-transportation of the ore, those premiums and royalties are not being paid to the exchequer, resulting in a sizeable monetary loss for the state, while also shunting economic growth.
The trucking industry, which is an essential part of the ore transportation, sustains several lives directly and indirectly which are massively impacted, facing severe financial instability. Each day, 184 trucks are needed to deliver 12,658 tons of ore over a distance of seven km from the NSP to Sarmanas Jetty. The common fee for the transportation of ore per km, per ton is Rs. 16.50, plus a mud allowance of Rs. 0.76, bring the total to Rs. 17.26 per km, per ton. Each truck, making six trips in a day with a capability of 10.5 tons, translates to an average earning of Rs. 7,611.66 per day.
The resumption of operations had created jobs for over 150 contractual employees, there are plans to increase this to over 600. This expansion is slated to generate an income greater than Rs. 1.5 crore, hugely benefiting families and the local economic system. They have also generated Mining Development Operations (MDO) valued at Rs. 250 crores. These operations provide business opportunities for local enterprises and employment for around 500 individuals from the local community further highlighting the importance and its impact on economy.
Urging timely intervention All-Goa Truck Owners’ association stated: “The situation arising due to the state of mining at present reflects a critical issue that haunts the livelihoods of countless families in Goa and is also having significant impact on the state’s economy. Truck drivers and local businesses depend on the steady flow of income generated from ore transportation. Every day of delay translates into significant financial losses for the state and community. We urge the authorities to take action to ensure prosperity and economic stability in the region. The future of many hardworking Goans hangs in the balance, and we must act swiftly to safeguard their livelihoods.”
The current state of mining activities in Goa is inflicting extensive financial and social distress. The state is facing substantial losses in form of unpaid duties and royalties, and the livelihoods of many is at stake. Immediate and impactful action is needed to ensure the continuing prosperity of the state and the numerous households that rely on it.
“While we recognize that the government is trying to sort this issue, the urgency of the matter cannot be overstated. Our members, their families, and the communities reliant on the flawless functioning of the industry are suffering with no respite in sight. Resolving this crisis, resumption of transportation must take precedence in order to safeguard the dignity, security, and future prospects of thousands of Goans. the association added.”
