the goan I network
VASCO
Following hue and cry over fine coal dust entering houses at Sada and Jetty areas, coal handling is likely to be stopped at Mormugao Port Trust (MPT) till February 21.
According to MPT sources, the Goa State Pollution control Board (GSPCB) is reported to have directed the coal handling companies to stop handling coal at MPT for a few days till the GSPCB decides on the matter in the next meeting.
Sources at the coal handling units have also confirmed receiving letters from the GSPCB.
Source added that the GSPCB has also called officials of both units for a hearing on February 21 and also directed that to such time there should be no coal handling at MPT.
Sources said the GSPCB is likely to monitor the ambient air quality for a week after the coal handling operating are kept on hold.
When contacted, GSPCB Chairman Ganesh Shetgaonkar said the GSPCB board had decided to investigate the matter of coal pollution complains made by residents and put up to the board again before it can be decided whether consent to South West Port Limited (SWPL) could be renewed or issued.
“We will check and investigate and till such time, the consent of SWPL will be kept on hold. Other decisions are internal decision. The final decision will be take by the board in the next immediate meeting. Past data showed no problem and air ambient quality was up to the mark, but we have to investigate,” said Shetgaonkar.
