The State Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC) has granted environmental clearance for sand mining in the Mandovi and Zuari rivers. During its meeting in August, SEAC recommended ECs for sand extraction in seven zones in Mandovi River and five zones along Zuari River stretch.
SEAC has said that the Directorate of Mines and Geology (DMG) will issue permits to individuals, allowing them to extract up to 1,000 cubic meters of sand per year.
The sand extraction activity is restricted to only manual methods. The mining activity is allowed between 6.00 am to 6.00 pm with a complete ban during monsoon season.
In a bid to support local communities, 70% of the permits will be reserved for traditional sand extractors.