VASCO
Decrying the union ministry’s decision to waive off the EC to the proposed marina project in Zuari river, locals from Chicalim have said this ‘backdoor entry’ to the project should be opposed by Goans.
“The setting up of a Marina will affect the breeding of the endangered species Windowpane Oysters, scientifically known as Placuna Placenta, which is a Schedule-IV species under the Wildlife Protection Act 1972,” said Rui Costa Araujo, Chairman of Chicalim BMC.
“Scientific literature shows that the Windowpane Oysters have been reported from the Nauxim Bay of the Zuari estuary as well. The breeding of Clams will also be affected and destroy traditional fishing activity as well as the livelihood of hundreds of collectors.”
“The Chicalim and Sancoale Bays are a breeding ground for innumerable varieties of fish and other Shell fish. This backdoor entry to Khargwal AHOY Marina is ridiculous and should be opposed by Goans.”
Edwin Mascarenhas, a senior citizen from Chicalim who has been fighting against projects which threaten the environment, said “manipulations of green laws will destroy both our Environment and the Moral Fibre of the Goan Society.”
“Such projects are established overseas, with strict environmental protection regulations. And there are continuous audits and reviews by authorities. They coexist with those practising traditional occupations. Very heavy penalties are imposed for violations,” said Mascarenhas.
“The green signal given to an already scrapped marina project at Nauxi in our Mormugao bay by the central government suggests that Goa and India have presently turned into a Banana Republic.”
Chicalim Panch Roman Vaz said Goa is a small state with limited sources of income for locals who are mostly dependent on the rich coastal belt for their survival.
“Local fishermen, anglers, and shell fish pluckers earn their daily livelihood from the gifts of the coastal belt of Goa. Fish breeding is at its best on the banks of our rivers, adding to it are the thick mangroves that save us from soil erosion,” said Vaz.
“Therefore, I totally condemn and oppose the decision to exclude environmental clearance for a project with such ecological implications. I ask the authorities to scrap this project. Don't take Goans for a ride to fulfil the rich men's luxuries.”
Alisha Pereira, treasurer of Chicalim Youth Farmers Club (CYFC), said the MoEf&CC has to urgently reassess its decision taking into consideration the adverse effects the people and the fragile coastal ecosystem of Nauxim will have to face if the marina project turns to reality.
“It is seen that most locals of Nauxim are dependent on the self-sustaining traditional fishing activity for their livelihood. Also, the Nauxim village coastline houses rare species of oysters and fishes and that the area is the breeding ground for various fish species, which will be in danger if the marina project materialises,” said Pereira.
“I urge the central and state authorities concerned to revoke this decision and safeguard local interest and also save Nauxim village from environmental degradation.”
