Minews - Iron ore mining doesn't cause fatal health problems: experts

(Minews) - Health experts today said Goa's iron ore mining industry does not pose risk to life and it is a wrong notion that mining causes fatal health problems.

"The iron ore mining in Goa does not cause fatal occupational health problems," Indian Association of Occupational Health (IAOH) former chairman Dr Sunil Kakodkar told reporters here today.

There have been proper studies to conclude that iron ore mining does not create lung problems, as is feared by some people, he said.

"This has been proved after conducting proper research among those working in the mines and those living in the surrounding areas," he said, adding that even if iron ore particles are inhaled, the person may not die.

Kakodkar is among the occupational health experts who have gathered in Goa to participate in the International Conclave on Occupational Health, incorporating the 64th National Conference of Indian Association of Occupational Health which went underway here from today.

Goa has 90-odd mining leases in its seven talukas which are currently non-functional due to ban imposed by the Supreme Court owing to allegations of illegal mining.

There are some unorganised metal mines which might cause occupational health hazards due to presence of silica content in the extracted product, Kakodkar said.

"These are largely unorganised entities so there are no studies on them resulting in occupational health hazards," he said.

Goa Chapter of IAOH chairman Dr Navnath Bhatikar said there are wrong notions spread that iron ore mining creates health issues like tuberculosis among those living in the mining belt.

"There is not a single case of lung disease reported due to iron ore mining in the state," he said.

IAOH national president Dr Chaitanya Gulvady said the conference, which would be attended by around 600 Indian and international delegates, will have presentation of 85 research papers on occupational health.

On the theme of the conference, Gulvady said that sustainability requires reconciliation of economy,environment and the society.

"Understanding its importance, an increasing number of organisations are embracing the concept of sustainability, and workplace health and well being are key drivers of sustainability," he added.