Team Goemkarponn
MORMUGAO: Tension gripped the Mormugao constituency on Wednesday after MLA Sankalp Amonkar issued a stern three-day ultimatum to the coal handling companies at Mormugao Port, warning that operations would be forcibly shut down if coal dust pollution and foul odour are not brought under immediate control.
Hundreds of residents from Sada, Boggda, Jetty and Rumdawada gathered at Sada Junction before marching in protest to the gate of the company handling coal at the port. Locals complained that coal dust and a persistent stench have once again begun affecting residential areas, triggering health concerns and widespread anger.
Addressing the crowd outside the company premises, Amonkar announced that the official of a coal handling unit has been formally served with a memorandum carrying nearly 1,500 signatures from citizens of the constituency. The memorandum demands urgent and visible corrective measures within three days.
“If coal pollution and the foul smell are not stopped within the next three days, we will enter the company premises and completely halt coal operations,” Amonkar declared, asserting that thousands of residents are prepared to join the action if required. His warning drew loud cheers from the assembled protesters, many of whom said they have endured recurring pollution for years.
The protest site witnessed tense moments as slogans were raised at the company gate. Anticipating possible escalation, heavy police deployment was arranged under the supervision of Deputy Collector of Mormugao Bhagwant Karmali. After publicly announcing the deadline, Amonkar appealed to the gathering to remain calm but firm in their stand, following which the crowd dispersed peacefully.
The administration had earlier intervened following complaints from residents. Deputy Collector Karmali had convened a meeting with officials of the Mormugao Port Authority and the coal handling company, after which an inspection was conducted and directions were issued to implement immediate measures to control coal dust and odour. Despite these steps, residents maintain that pollution has continued unabated.
Amonkar maintained that his opposition to coal pollution is not recent. He stated that he has been raising the issue for the past eight years — even before becoming MLA — and has repeatedly taken it up in the Goa Legislative Assembly over the last four years. He pointed out that structural measures such as the construction of a coal handling dome were introduced last year to curb pollution, but insisted that more stringent safeguards are necessary.
The protest also carried unmistakable political undertones ahead of the upcoming elections. Without naming him, Amonkar took aim at a former MLA and minister, alleging that those who remained silent on coal operations during their tenure are now attempting to speak against it for electoral mileage. He asserted that the issue concerns public health and cannot be reduced to political opportunism.
With the three-day deadline now in effect, pressure mounts on the company to respond decisively. Authorities remain on alert as residents wait to see whether corrective action follows — or whether Mormugao is headed toward a direct confrontation at the port gates.
