Ban on iron ore transportation from neighbouring Karnataka and truckers’ strike at home may reduce Goa’s iron ore exports this season. Goa Mineral Ore Exporters Association (GMOEA) predicted a downfall of at least 10 per cent in the iron ore exports, considering the trend till December last year, when it exported 28 million tonnes (mt) of ore against the season’s expectation of 53 mt exports. Of the total, 45 mt was from the 100 local mining leases, while the rest was transported from Karnataka.
“Since last two months, there is a ban on transportation of ore from Karnataka. Also, local factors such as strike by truckers play a role in adding to the woes,” GMOEA Secretary Glen Kalavampara said. The truckers transporting the ore have struck work, demanding higher rates for the transportation. The issue at present is looked at by the state government constituted committee. Kalavampara said the strike if it continues for more days is likely to dent the ferrous exports.