Goa CM suggests filling expired iron ore pits with water

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Friday told the Assembly that his government was working to convert iron ore pits not in use into reservoirs storing water. Sawant said Central mining laws make it mandatory for firms to refill these pits once leases expire.

"We will urge the Central government to not refill the pits so that we can use them as reservoirs. These can fulfill water requirements, including for drinking purposes, of areas in the vicinity," Sawant said. Iron ore mines in the state have been shut since March last year following a Supreme Court order..