Daijiworld Media Network- Panaji

Panaji, Jul 22: In a key move to ensure employment generation for Goans and tighten regulations around iron ore dump handling, the Goa state cabinet on Monday approved significant amendments to the e-auction policy for dump mining. The revised policy makes it mandatory for successful bidders to provide jobs to local residents, marking a decisive step in linking mining operations with local livelihood.

The amended policy also grants the Directorate of Mines and Geology (DMG) the authority to re-auction dumps and blacklist bidders who fail to begin dump handling within 180 days of the auction. Additionally, such defaulters may be required to make an upfront payment as penalty.

The move comes in light of earlier announcements by the state government to tweak the procedure for the auctioning of low-grade iron ore dumps, in line with recommendations from the Supreme Court-appointed expert committee. The SC had permitted dump mining in Goa, strictly as per Paragraph 6 of the expert report, which outlines key safeguards and procedural norms.

The revised policy mandates that prospective bidders submit a detailed project report (DPR), including:

• Estimated quantum of waste at the dump site

• A comprehensive waste handling plan

• Drainage and environmental impact management

• A detailed reclamation plan post-mining

The e-auction policy, originally notified on September 14, 2023, was given cabinet approval on March 15, 2024. However, based on evolving regulatory and operational needs, the government has introduced further amendments this year through a corrigendum, which includes:

• Bank guarantee equivalent to the estimated cost of waste handling

• Clear modalities for upfront and EMD payments

• Revised net worth criteria for participating bidders

• Mandatory submission of a waste disposal and dump handling plan

In addition to these changes, the cabinet also approved cancellation of the earlier round of e-auctions, paving the way for a fresh auction process under the new rules.

With this revised policy, the Goa government seeks to strike a balance between environmentally compliant mineral resource utilization and socio-economic benefits for the local population.

The DMG is expected to release the updated model tender document soon, reflecting the latest regulatory provisions