Mining ops start at Shirgao with buffer zones around temple

Panaji: Salgaocar Shipping commenced mining operations at Shirgao, Mayem, with a 150m buffer zone around the Lairai temple and an 80m buffer around Dhondanchi Tali being created, said Narayan Gad, director of mines and geology.With this, three mining blocks that were leased are now operational, with all environmental safeguards being followed, said Gad.“We have taken an undertaking from Salgaocar Shipping that from the outer wall of the temple, there will be a buffer of 150m, and within that buffer, they will not do any mining activity,” said Gad. “With this new mine, we have now operationalised three blocks.”Two more mining blocks are expected to begin operations this year.