Social activist Dr Jorson Fernandes has said the present Government has sinister plans to stock and subsequently transport 136 million tonnes of coal through Goa, via the Mormugao Port, from the present 12 million tonnes, under the SAGARMALA project.
He said this project will result in 11 times more coal dust pollution in our air, food and water, and greenhouse gas emissions especially in Mormugao and surrounding areas. “This will result in further rise in respiratory illnesses and issues, including asthma, aggravated asthma, other respiratory diseases, having severe impacts on human health”, Dr Jorson cautioned.
Saying that trains contribute more to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, vibrations, sound pollution and spillage of coal along the tracks which can have adverse effects on human health and the environment, Jorson said “And now, with plans to transport coal through water one can surely expect water pollution of our rivers particularly when using slurry pipelines or shipping on rivers and coastlines”, he said.
He added: “Studies shows that about 300Kgs of Coal spills from one wagon over a distance of 600 Kms. This coal contains Arsenic- Carcinogenic, Mercury, Cadmium, Chromium and Lead which are heavy metals which will enter into our water bodies, fish and then the humans. Accidental spills or leaks can contaminate water sources, affecting aquatic life and local communities, with the result Goans could no longer depend on fish for their meals”.
He said the Precautionary Principle which is part of Environmental Law states that the moment there is suspicion of pollution the proponents must have the onus for proof of evidence and take measures to prevent further damage to the environment and seek public participation in decision making for Risk assessment, risk management and Risk Communication.
Dr Jorson made a pointed reference to the 'Lancet Commission on Health and Climate Change' which calls on governments to “protect cardiovascular and respiratory health by ensuring a rapid phase out of coal from the global energy mix. “The Healthy Energy Initiative – a global network of health professionals, academics, and organisations advocates for a shift away from coal and other fossil fuels towards clean, renewable energy, summed up Dr Jorson.
