Goemkarponn desk
MARGAO: Goa Forward Party, has strongly condemned the Goa government for its support of the deepening of the approach channel at Mormugao Port.
GFP said that this project, which has recently received approval from the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA), poses significant threats to the environment and the health of the local community.
“The primary purpose of accommodating cape-size vessels, as stated in the minutes of the July 2019 meeting of the Expert Appraisal Committee, is to facilitate the transportation of coal,” said Vikas Bhagat.
He further said that the target is an alarming 50 million tonnes of coal. This will inevitably increase pollution and health risks for the residents of Vasco and surrounding areas.
“Studies on source apportionment have shown that Vasco City is already suffering from significant pollution levels. Introducing additional sources of pollution is not only irresponsible but dangerous for the health and well-being of the community,” he said.
Bhagat said the BJP lost the mandate in both the Vasco Assembly constituency and the South Goa parliamentary elections due to the people’s strong opposition to turning Goa into a coal hub.
“This clear mandate from the people against coal transportation must be respected and acted upon by the government,” he added.
GFP also said that the deepening of the channel will exacerbate coastal erosion, threatening the homes of fishermen in Kariwada along Vasco Beach. Additionally, vital fishing channels and activities will be jeopardized, risking the livelihoods of local fishermen who depend on these waters.
