PANJIM: The mining companies have challenged Goa State Pollution Control Board’s (GSPCB) authority to question them on the excess ore production and Environment Clearance (EC) certificates issue, claiming that it is for the Ministry of Environment and Forest (MoEF) to take a stand on these aspects.

GSPCB is currently hearing defence of 48 mining companies, regarding the authenticity of documentation for ECs, issued by MoEF. The hearings, which begun last week, were held following High Court order in a petition filed by Goa Foundation.