Goa Wildlife Clearance for Iron Ore Handling Proposal

Goa’s State Board for Wildlife (SBWL) recommended placing the proposal for wildlife clearance of iron ore handling at Kalem railway station before the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL). This site is located within the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park. The recommendation follows a Supreme Court ruling that imposed a status quo on development activities in areas designated as tiger reserves. The SBWL meeting was chaired by Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and included key officials and board members.

Background of the Proposal

The South Western Railway submitted a proposal in August 2024 seeking permission to load, unload and transport iron ore at Kalem railway station. This station lies inside the protected sanctuary. The proposal faced scrutiny due to environmental concerns raised by the NGO Goa Foundation. They filed a public interest litigation citing damage to vegetation and wildlife caused by mining truck movements.

Legal and Judicial Developments

In July 2023, the Bombay High Court directed Goa to notify the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary and other areas as tiger reserves. Goa challenged this order in the Supreme Court. The apex court, in September 2023, ordered a halt on development in these areas until further review. A Central Empowered Committee was appointed to examine the tiger reserve status and report in six weeks. The Supreme Court ruling impacts all activities in the sanctuary, including ore handling.

Environmental Concerns and Board Deliberations

The Goa Foundation’s litigation questioned if ore handling could proceed without clearance from the Chief Wildlife Warden under the Wildlife Protection Act 1972. The High Court directed the Chief Wildlife Warden to decide on the project’s application lawfully. During the SBWL meeting in March 2025, concerns about the impact on wildlife were raised. Suggestions included using a railway yard outside the sanctuary boundary for ore handling to avoid disturbance inside protected land.

Recommendations and Mitigation Measures

The SBWL recommended submitting the proposal to the NBWL for consideration, subject to Supreme Court guidelines. Board members stressed the need to assess the overall environmental impact beyond pollution control conditions. They proposed forming an expert committee to study and suggest mitigation strategies. This approach aims to balance development needs with wildlife conservation.

Role of Key Authorities

The Chief Wildlife Warden plays important role in granting clearance under the Wildlife (Protection) Act. The State Board for Wildlife advises on local matters, while the National Board for Wildlife has the final say on proposals affecting protected areas. The judiciary ensures legal compliance and environmental protection through its rulings. NGOs contribute by raising public interest concerns and monitoring compliance.