Team Goemkarponn
MORMUGAO: Amid strong criticism and political opposition over the double-tracking project, the Mormugao Port Authority (MPA) has asserted that the initiative will not only benefit the port by improving cargo handling and efficiency but will also strengthen Goa’s economy and enhance passenger train services across the state.
MPA Traffic Manager (in-charge) Jerome Clement, when contacted, stressed that the project should be seen as a critical infrastructure upgrade for the state and not only as a port-centric exercise.
“We need to understand that this infrastructure is the need of the hour, not just for the port but for Goa as a whole. Double-tracking will definitely benefit the port by boosting the railway network and improving cargo evacuation. At the same time, it will increase the number of passenger trains, which can benefit Goans at large,” Clement said.
On the widespread criticism linking the project exclusively to coal transportation, Clement clarified that double-tracking would serve all types of cargo.
“There is a perception that double-tracking is only about coal, but that is not correct. Any type of port cargo—whether imports or exports—can be transported more quickly and efficiently. With a stronger railway network, the port can diversify its cargo profile and attract new business to Goa,” he explained.
Clement also highlighted the wider economic gains expected from the project, particularly in strengthening Goa’s trade links with neighboring states.
“With double-tracking, we can tap more cargo from hinterland areas of Maharashtra and Karnataka. Many companies will prefer to move their shipments through Goa port because of the improved connectivity. This will reduce dependency on road transport, ease road congestion, and lower carbon emissions. The reduction in road-based cargo movement itself is a major environmental advantage,” he added.
Defending the port’s operations in a state known for its environmental sensitivity, Clement stressed that MPA has put safeguards in place to minimize pollution.
“Goa is a sensitive state, and all cargo movements are handled systematically. Cargo moved by trains is covered, and wagons are sealed with tarpaulin to mitigate pollution, if at all. At present, the port receives iron ore from Karnataka and Maharashtra, along with steel coils and granite. Outgoing cargo includes coal, bauxite, gypsum, and iron ore. With double-tracking, efficiency in handling these cargoes will improve and the port will see greater throughput,” Clement stated.
He further emphasized that the doubling of tracks must be viewed in the larger context of development.
“Every progressive state strengthens its infrastructure to keep pace with the future. For Goa, double-tracking means more passenger trains, stronger port operations, and better industrial connectivity. Ultimately, this will translate into growth for the port, economic progress for the state, job creation, and sustainable trade,” Clement said.
While opposition parties and civil society groups continue to challenge the project on environmental and livelihood grounds, MPA has stood firm on its position that the port and the state will derive long-term benefits once the double-tracking project is implemented.
