VASCO
A livid Mormugao MLA Sankalp Amonkar on Tuesday warned Paradeep Phosphates Limited (PPL) that he would stop all transportation of ammonia to and from the port, after an ammonia leakage was reported at Berth 8 in the Mormugao Port Authority (MPA).
Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Amonkar said ammonia is a ticking time bomb in the port town and people have been living in fear as the ammonia storage tanks in the port were in close vicinity to densely populated areas.
"Locals informed me about the ammonia leakage from the ship at MPA and I rushed to inspect the situation. It is by the grace of God that the leakage from the ship has been controlled, but my question is, who would be responsible in case of a disaster,” asked Amonkar.
“This ammonia cargo is a time bomb that keeps the people in constant fear. I urge the MPA not to get such dangerous cargo in the port which can put the lives of people in danger."
Amonkar said he had been constantly demanding that mock drills be conducted at ammonia storage tanks to check the safety parameters and preparedness in the event of a disaster.
“Despite raising this issue in the assembly, we are still unaware if mock drills are held or not and this is unacceptable. The mock drill must have public participation so that they are aware of what steps need to be taken in case of emergency. The public is not aware of anything, since the tanks are in the port and people are not allowed.”
“We will be forced to come on roads with the people if the Dadagiri of the PPL does not stop and if they continue to take people for granted. I am not against any business but in case any company takes people for granted and puts their lives in danger, I may be forced to take up harsh steps," said Amonkar.
“It is imperative that these ammonia storage tanks be shifted to a different location immediately like the way other fuel tanks have been shifted away from Vasco.”
"The ammonia transportation done from the port by roads is also improper as they don't observe any safety. There has to be a fire brigade and an escort with every tanker that carries ammonia to cater to emergencies but this is not happening,” Amonkar added.
