Panaji: The Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS) has directed mining companies in Goa to take precautionary measures, including the formation of a monitoring cell, to prevent any untoward incidents at mines during the monsoon season. The monitoring cell will be responsible for planning, monitoring, and preventing potential hazards.
Operational Mines and Inspection Committee
Currently, five mines are operational in the state. The DGMS has constituted a committee to inspect non-working mines and issue necessary directions. A senior officer stated that with the monsoon approaching, mining companies have been instructed to implement all precautionary measures to ensure mine safety as per the Metalliferous Mines Regulations, 1961.
Precautionary Measures Ordered
In addition to forming the monitoring cell, the DGMS has asked mining firms to assess the likely rainwater accumulation in the mine area, considering the highest rainfall recorded in a single day over the past ten years. The directions specify:
- Proper surface drains and intermittent bench drains must be constructed and kept free from obstructions to divert all water to the pit bottom.
- Continuous monitoring of bench slopes, dumps, ore stacks, and similar features should be carried out during the monsoon.
- Waterlogged pits must be securely fenced to prevent unauthorized entry.
- Adequate pumping arrangements with standby pumps are to be provided.
- A natural overflow system with sufficient pipes or alternative means should be ensured, and the rise in water level must be regularly monitored with records maintained.
- Any obstruction in the drainage system must be removed immediately.
Settling Ponds and Public Safety
The DGMS also advised that settling ponds should, as far as possible, be located away from public property that could be affected by an unprecedented failure of such ponds or reservoirs.
