Residents of Pilgao protest against Vedanta’s alleged violations, seeking higher court intervention.

A public interest litigation (PIL) has been filed by farmers and villagers of Pilgao, Goa, against Vedanta Limited, a mining corporation. The petitioners claim that the company has violated Environmental Clearance (EC) requirements while transporting iron ore and are seeking a complete prohibition on night-time transportation. They argue that the noise pollution caused by night-time transportation is disturbing their sleep. The petitioners are also seeking to restrict Vedanta from using the main road that passes through the settlement area for ore transportation, and to adhere to EC conditions. The EC criteria state that the company must follow the Directorate of Mines and Geology’s Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) and only use roads listed in the clearance. The petitioners are also requesting the court to direct the Directorate of Mines and Geology and police authorities to halt night-time transportation. The hearing is scheduled for January 13.