PANJIM | June 09, 2017: In a bid to ensure that river resources are prudently managed, the Union Mines Ministry has directed State governments, including Goa, to draft a District Survey Report (DSR) mapping the status of sand sources in every district.

During the first meeting of the committee set up to suggest sand mining guidelines held on June 2, the Ministry stressed on the need for sustainable mining of sand without causing damage to the environment.

“In this regard, the preparation of the DSR is an important initial step to ensure sustainable sand mining so that river resources are prudently managed and developed for the benefit of the present and future generations,” the minutes of the meeting state.

The report will consist of an overview of mining activity, details of production of sand in last three years in the district, the process of deposition of sediments in the river, physiographic, geology and mineral wealth, details of mineral potential and the present status of mining leases already in operation with details of area and production.

In Goa, large scale sand mining takes places along the river belts in North Goa, while in South it is dominated in the Curti-Khandepar region. Currently, sand mining is at halt due to the monsoons and extraction will recommence in October.

(Source: https://www.heraldgoa.in/)