Daijiworld Media Network - Piligao

Piligao, Aug 19: Tension flared up in Piligao on Monday as villagers once again blocked ore transportation on the Piligao–Sarmanas main road, this time opposing the erection of a weighing bridge structure by Vedanta Sesa.

Residents alleged that the company constructed the structure without obtaining prior permission from the local panchayat, and in the process, blocked access to several houses. “The mining company should immediately remove the structure as the access route of 15 families has been blocked,” said panch member Mohini Jalmi, who joined the protest.

Sarpanch Sharmila Walawalkar added that despite repeated letters to the company, ore transportation has not been halted during the monsoon. “We wrote twice, the last time in June, but got no response. The main road has become dangerously slippery, causing accidents. We demand immediate demolition of the structure,” she said.

Advocate Ajay Prabhugaonkar further alleged that the company has failed to comply with standard operating procedures (SOPs). He pointed out that slurry deposits on the main road are left uncleared, and during rains, mining rejects flow into irrigation canals, posing a threat to homes and farmland.

Meanwhile, Vedanta Sesa Goa refuted the charges. “Vedanta Sesa Goa assures all stakeholders that operations are being conducted in strict adherence to all applicable environmental, safety, and regulatory norms. The company values its long-standing association with the community and is engaging with all, including civil administration, through continued dialogue and cooperation,” a spokesperson stated.

Locals, however, have vowed to continue their protest until the weighing bridge structure is removed.