Rs 115 crore meant for infra projects in mining belt lying unused

Panaji: A sum of Rs 115 crore collected from mining firms is lying idle with the Goa government for want of a committee which is to decide how to spend the amount. As per the Supreme Court directives, mining firms have to contribute 30 per cent of royalty to a special fund created by the government.

The money in the fund has to be utilised to create infrastructure and other facilities in the mining belt. Mines and Geology Director Prasanna Acharya said a sum of Rs 115 crore is lying in the fund and it is yet to be utilised in the mining belt in the absence of the committee.

"The government has almost finalised the formation of the committee which is likely to be headed by the Mines Secretary. The composition of the committee is being worked out," Acharya said.

He said the money will not be diverted for any other purpose. South Goa Collector Swapnil Naik said the district administration is yet to receive money from the fund.

Collectors of North and South Goa (the state has only two districts) are nodal officers for implementation of schemes under the fund. The mining industry has demanded representation in the panel.

"It is relevant to have industry representatives on the committee," said Goa Mineral Ore Exporters Association Secretary Glenn Kalavampara.