Goemkarponn desk
PORVORIM: Chief Minister Pramod Sawant today said that Environment Clearance (EC) for sand extraction in Mandovi, Zuari and Chapora rivers will be done in a month’s time.
Sawant was addressing the media during the state cabinet meeting.
“EC for sand extraction in Zuari, Mandovi & chapora river within month’s time; Sand extraction will be permitted only by ‘Traditional method,” said Sawant.
He further said that sand extraction issue is handled by the mines department and that government will not issue any licenses till the times NIO submits its report in the matter.
CM also said that there was a conflict between the Goa and Maharashtra sand transportation associations and after resolving it, they have been told that officially, they have to get the passes that the government issues.
Sawant said that he said that the NIO has given a report only about the Chapora river and that reports are yet to come regarding other locations.
“The government will not be able to take any decision without it,” he added.
The Chief Minister said that NIO is responsible for preparation of study report for sand removal in Zuari as well as other rivers.
“These reports are to be submitted to the government. As the matter is before the High Court, if the licenses are issued before the report, they will have no legal significance,” CM said.
