Panaji (Goa): The State Government today finalized new rates for transportation of iron ore. It has approved Rs 12.50 per tonne per kilometer for first 10 kilometers, Rs 12 per ton for 11 to 20 kilometers and Rs 11.50 per ton for 20 kilometer and above.
Government has also decided to reintroduce the scheme providing financial package to the truck owners, whose vehicles fail to get the business during the current mining season. Under the scheme, which will be in force for one year, the maximum benefit is restricted to only two trucks- Rs 8000 per month for the first truck and Rs 4000 for the second truck.
Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar today chaired the meeting to finalize the transportation rates. The meeting was attended by director of mines, GMOEA, mining companies and truck owners.
Speaking to reporters post meeting, Pawaskar confirmed that government has hike transportation charges by Rs 2 per ton per kms as against the earlier rate.
Earlier the trucks were charged Rs 10.50 per tonne per kilometer for first 10 kilometers, Rs 10 per ton for 11 to 20 kilometers and Rs 9.50 per ton for 20 kilometer and above.
“The international market prices are at decline and also the production is limited to only 20 million tons annually. Under such situation, we have to ensure profit to both-mining firms and truck owners,” he explained.
There are over 7000 trucks registered with the Directorate of Mines and Geology (DMG) for transportation.
“It is not possible to give business to all. Two-three trucks per family that is if it is registered in different names will be allowed to transport,” Pawaskar said.
“Those who fail to get business, government will reopen the financial package to them, wherein Rs 8000 will be given towards first truck,” the MLA informed.
However, the truck owners were divided on the proposed transportation rates.
While the North Goa Truck Owners Association (NGTOA) accepted the proposal, the South Goa Progressive Truck Owners Association (SGPTA) declined to accept the rates as well as the financial package while demanding Rs 14 per tons per kms.
