PONDA | Dec 04, 2017: Khandepar-Ponda locals are irked over the lack of information regarding the whereabouts Manoj Anant Naik (44) and have gathered outside the gates of Codli Mines, demanding that the mining company officials allow them access to the spot of mishap.

They have been demanding access inside and also to know the real facts as to why there was delay in tracing Manoj, from Khandepar, who has been trapped under the debris, along with ripper machine, while he was operating in the mines.

Mining company officials, who did not permit them inside due to security reasons, however, said Manoj’s phone was ringing.

Locals alleged that the mining company carries on work without proper security, safety and risking life of workers.

However, after protest by locals, few close relatives were allowed to visit the spot.

The locals also threatened to stop ore transportation until the Khandepar local, who has been buried under the debris, is recovered from mining pit, and appealed to truck owners to stop ore transportation until Manoj was traced.

Locals also questioned why the government was not taking action against the mines for the dangerous situation.

Locals were unhappy that the mining companies allowed only police and not the media to know the exact situation.

Curtorim MLA Aleixo Reginaldo Lourenco also visited the mining company and took stock of the search operation.

Later, speaking to media, he said there are a lot of illegalities and dangerous situations at the mining site and he would raise the issue in the Assembly, especially about the security of workers engaged in mining companies.

Locals also criticised the mines department and said that neither Mines Department, nor the Chief Minister had visited the spot. They alleged that since they were not allowed inside, there must be illegal activities going on and there was no transparency, and sought government intervention on the safety and security of workers.

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