Coconut growers have claimed that as a result of the rapid growth of the telecom industry and the massive expansion of mobile towers, the radiation that is released has started affecting their plantation and the fruits. Horticulturists have also reportedly stated that they used to get massive yields in their farms but over the last few years it has dwindled and blame it on the mobile tower installations in the area.
It is true that there has been research done on effect of radiation from mobile towers on humans but few studies have been conducted of its effect on commercial plantations like coconut and other trees. If radiation from mobile towers do affect coconuts and other fruits then it is a serious matter. TThe Goa government which has taken measures to increase and improve productivity of coconut in the state should also look into this claim of mobile towers affecting the yield of coconuts as consumption of coconuts containing harmful radiation can adversely affect the health.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
