Goemkarponn Desk
SANVORDEM: Amidst growing opposition to the three linear projects passing through the Mollem protected area, the Goa government has decided to fast-track these projects, which according to them, would give major boost to State’s infrastructure.
Speaking during a event organized by the South Western Railways, the Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant said that government will approach the concerned Union Ministries to fast track all the three projects- double tracking of railway line, Tanmar power transmission line and national highway expansion.
Sawant said that the three projects are need of the hour and will give major boost to State’s infrastructure development. “We need these projects for our future generation. We are concerned about environment and wildlife but at the same time we need to look at the human requirements…State and Human development,” he said.
Referring to the simmering opposition to the projects, the Chief Minister claimed that those are either with “personal motive” or with “political interest”.
“Some are opposing the projects only because they want to oppose each and everything. It is their personal motive and some politicians are using it for their political interest,” he commented.
Referring to the railway double tracking, Sawant reiterated that the project is not for coal transportation but to increase passenger and trade movement. He said that government has already decided to reduce coal handling at the Mormugao Port Trust (MPT) by introducing several other alternative tourism projects.
He also said that government will continue its support to ensure completion of Tanmar power project as it will cater the State’s additional power requirements over the years.
People in Goa are opposing the linear projects, passing through the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem national park, apprehending that it is being done to facilitate coal handling and that it will lead to major environment destruction
