Sanquelim Reclaimed Mines – Regeneration, Purpose, Legacy
In the 1980s and 90s, long before mine closure regulations were mandated, Sesa Goa (now VISL) pioneered one of India’s most ambitious mine reclamation projects at Sanquelim. The Sanquelim Group of Mines,located in the North Goa District of Goa, cover an area of >200 ha. Once major mining operations were discontinued in the late 90s due to the uneconomical nature of mining , an ambitious and unique mine reclamation project was undetrtaken by the Company.
Systematic backfilling of pits and bench formation enabled large-scale afforestation, with over 7.5 lakh trees, including endemic species as well as others, were planted across 100 hectares of erstwhile mining land. Guided by the Goa State Forest Department, fast-growing species stabilized dumps, while later phases introduced native horticulture and forest plants with expertise from Goa University, the State Agriculture Department, and the Rubber Board -proving even commercial crops like rubber could thrive on reclaimed land.
Innovation extended beyond afforestation. Mine pits were converted into rainwater-harvesting reservoirs, and with support from the National Institute of Oceanography, pisciculture was introduced in 1990, successfully cultivating Rohu, Katla, and Common Carp. Biodiversity flourished, with rising bird and butterfly activity. A plantation management plan approved by the Forest Department further enriched the ecosystem, replacing mature Acacia with native species and creating themed gardens like Nakshatra Vatika, Charak Vatika, and a butterfly garden.
The reclaimed site also became a hub for people-focused initiatives. The Sesa Technical School and the Sesa Football Academywere established at the erstwhile mining site.
Ecologically, the forest now sequesters nearly 16,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually, equivalent to removing 80,000 cars from the road. Recognized nationally as a model mine closure project, Sanquelim stands as proof that reclamation can restore landscapes, empower communities, and redefine sustainability.
