The Bombay High Court at Goa has mandated the Directorate of Mines and Geology (DMG) and the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) to conduct thorough assessments of each route proposed for ore transportation. This order, issued by the division bench on Tuesday, underscores the importance of evaluating the potential impact on local communities, including residents, schools, and other activities along these routes.
The petitioners, comprising the Mulakh Khajan Farmers Association and Goa Foundation, raised concerns over the safety and environmental implications of increased truck and tipper traffic passing through villages. They argued that such activities could disrupt the peace and pose risks to villagers, especially school-going children, while also exacerbating noise and pollution levels. Responding to these concerns, the bench of justices M S Karnik and Valmiki Menezes instructed the DMG and GSPCB to prepare detailed reports specific to each authorized transport route. These reports must encompass key factors such as the length of the route, density of residential areas, presence of educational institutions, and other community activities. This comprehensive approach aligns with guidelines outlined in an office memorandum from the environment ministry, which restricts ore transportation via village roads.
Moreover, the court directed the responsible bodies to implement real-time monitoring mechanisms for trucks, including the installation of CCTV cameras along designated routes. These cameras will be linked to DVR devices stationed at panchayat offices and other strategic locations, enabling officials to oversee truck movements effectively. Furthermore, the DMG and GSPCB are urged to deploy pollution monitoring devices that provide real-time data to their servers. This technological setup aims to ensure that air quality along the designated routes remains within permissible limits. Should pollution levels exceed these norms, authorities will have the capability to intervene promptly by halting truck movements as necessary. This judicial intervention reflects a proactive stance towards balancing industrial interests with environmental and public health considerations in Goa. By enforcing stringent monitoring and assessment measures, the court seeks to safeguard the rights and well-being of local communities while promoting sustainable development practices in the region.
