Villagers of Assolda are set to descend on the Goa State Pollution Control Board and environment board office in Panaji on Monday to protest the recommendation for environmental clearance granted to two proposed jetty projects along the Zuari river. The villagers fear the proposed jetties will open the floodgates to coal handling activities in the area.
The protest comes after the Goa State Environment Appraisal Committee (GSEAC) recommended that GSEIAA grant environmental clearance to a mining firm for the construction of a 336sqm cargo handling platform, a 237sqm storage jetty, and a 267m gabion wall to strengthen the existing river bund at Hodar and Xelvona in Quepem taluka.
The clearance is subject to compliance with extensive ecological and biodiversity safeguards.
The decision outraged local residents, who argue that the projects are a veiled attempt to facilitate coal transportation through their village. The agitation was decided at the Assolda gram sabha last week, where villagers voiced alarm over the potential health and environmental consequences.
Chartered accountant Pradip Kakodkar of Curchorem, a vocal opponent of the project, was unequivocal in his criticism.
“The sole purpose of having a jetty at Assolda is for coal handling,” he said, adding that the survey conducted by the authorities was deeply flawed. “There are a large number of coconut trees, mangroves, and fishing and agricultural activities here that will be destroyed by this jetty, yet the report is completely silent on all of this. We condemn this misleading survey and demand that the land be resurveyed in the presence of the villagers. ”
Kakodkar also urged people to join the march, warning that the consequences of coal handling at the jetty would be far-reaching. “The harmful effects will not be limited to Assolda or Hodor — they will affect every person living within a 10 km radius. Every resident of Curchorem must take time off and participate in this march to Panaji to question the authorities,” he said.
