Goa Starts Auction of 10 Iron Ore Mining Dumps

 The Directorate of Mines and Geology (DMG) has taken a major step in the disposal of accumulated iron ore dumps by initiating the auction of 10 identified sites across the state. Estimated to contain nearly 22 million tonnes of material, these dumps form part of a larger inventory of 26 locations marked for phased disposal. The decision marks a significant turning point in Goa’s mining sector, which has been undergoing regulatory and operational restructuring over the last decade.

First Phase of Auction Begins

According to DMG director Narayan Gad, the objective is to ensure transparent and structured utilisation of ore resources while clearing legacy stockpiles. For the first round of the auction, 10 mining dumps have been shortlisted. Nine of these are located in the mining belt of Sanguem and Dharbandora in South Goa, while one is situated in Honda in North Goa. The department has set an early January target to complete the process, signalling a time-bound and organised approach.

Mandatory DPR for Bidders

A key requirement for participation in the auction is the submission of a Detailed Project Report (DPR) by interested mining firms. The DPR will outline extraction methods, transport logistics, environmental safeguards, and compliance parameters. The DMG has issued guidelines specifying technical norms, ensuring that only qualified bidders with credible plans enter the process. Officials emphasise that this mechanism is aimed at preventing misuse, ensuring accountability, and streamlining extraction and dispatch.

Assessment of Dump Material

To ensure accuracy and transparency, the government engaged an independent third-party agency to profile the selected dumps. This study assessed the quantity and grade of iron ore, along with geotechnical characteristics and environmental considerations. The profiling report has been shared with prospective bidders as part of the auction documentation. Officials confirmed that the decision to begin with 10 sites is based on logistical feasibility, availability of extraction infrastructure, and ease of monitoring in the initial phase.

Inventory of 26 Dumps Across Goa

In total, 26 iron ore dumps have been identified across Goa. These consist of legacy stockpiles accumulated over years of mining activity. The current auction marks the first phase of disposal under the updated regulatory framework. Once the initial 10 dumps are auctioned, the department will move toward the remaining stock in subsequent phases. Industry stakeholders and logistics operators have welcomed the systematic disposal plan, anticipating renewed activity in Goa’s mining ecosystem.

Economic and Industrial Impact

The auction is expected to add momentum to cargo movement through roads, railways, and ports, providing indirect benefits to local employment and associated sectors. Transportation companies, ore-handling agents, machinery operators, and logistics workers will likely see increased opportunities once dispatch activities begin. However, officials maintain that environmental compliance and regulated extraction will remain non-negotiable priorities throughout the process.

Environmental Compliance and Monitoring

With increased activity comes heightened scrutiny. The DMG has emphasised that winning bidders must follow strict environmental safeguards and obtain necessary permissions from pollution control and forest authorities wherever applicable. Monitoring systems will track the movement of ore from extraction to dispatch, ensuring compliance with legal and environmental standards.

The auction of 10 iron ore dumps marks a structured return of activity in Goa’s mining sector, balancing resource utilisation with accountability. As the first phase moves forward, authorities are preparing to replicate the model across remaining sites, with transparency, regulation, and economic revival at the core of the process.