Team Goemkarponn
MORMUGAO: In a significant escalation of the coal pollution debate in Mormugao, a special joint meeting convened by MMC Chairperson Girish Borker on Wednesday was marked by the conspicuous absence of representatives from the port authority and coal handling units, even as elected members pressed for urgent action to address mounting environmental and health concerns.
The meeting was called to deliberate on the impact of coal handling operations in the port town and explore a coordinated response. However, the non-attendance of key stakeholders drew strong criticism from councillors, who described it as unacceptable and reflective of the lack of seriousness towards public health issues affecting residents.
Local MLA Sankalp Amonkar, who participated in the discussions, underscored the need for a clear, time-bound roadmap to phase out coal handling in Mormugao. He emphasised that the issue went beyond politics and demanded decisive administrative intervention.
“Coal handling must be stopped in the interest of our future generations. The deteriorating air quality and its impact on public health cannot be ignored,” Amonkar said, urging that the focus remain on concrete outcomes rather than symbolic exercises.
Councillors resolved to move formal resolutions opposing coal handling and decided to request Amonkar to convene a high-level joint meeting with Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant to work out a comprehensive plan. They maintained that only firm policy direction at the state level could ensure a lasting solution.
While assuring the council of his full support in taking up the matter with the government, Amonkar cautioned against politicising the sensitive issue, particularly with Council and Assembly elections drawing near. He appealed to members to avoid “political stunts” and instead work collectively to safeguard the health and well-being of Mormugao’s residents.
The MMC is now expected to adopt its resolutions formally and intensify efforts to push for a structured and time-bound action plan aimed at ending coal handling operations in the port town.
