VASCO
Cortalim MLA Anton Vas on Saturday said coal handling activity must be carried out without causing pollution or causing inconvenience to people.
Speaking to reporters after distributing Laadli Laxmi sanction letters, Vas also said the coal issue must not be used as a political weapon to instigate people but emphasised that coal handling companies must take steps to ensure there is zero pollution.
“I agree that pollution caused by coal has to be totally stopped, while companies and the transporters must take all steps to prevent pollution. The Railways and transporters have to maintain their loading limits and keep vehicles and wagons properly covered with tarpaulin to prevent air pollution,” said Vas.
“I have also raised the issue of double tracking in the assembly and I have been very vocal that the affected people in the villages must have a joint meeting with the Dy Collector and if required, even furnish their land documents to the Railways.”
“Sometimes, some leaders try to use this coal agitation for their personal benefit or to revive their political career but this is not correct as the motto is very clear that pollution must not happen nor be tolerated,” said Vas.
Former Velsao panch and social worker Roquezinho D’Souza said it was time for people to come on the tracks and stop the movement of trains in case excessive cargo was loaded.
“We will carry out a demonstration where wagons are being loaded and not allow the movement of trains even if we get arrested. We must stop the trains on tracks and call the Goa State Pollution Control Board on site to show the loose tarpaulin or excessive cargo being loaded.”
“It is no point collecting coal on tracks but it will be more imperative to stop trains if the wagons are overloaded and not properly covered. We can unitedly point out the real reasons for air pollution in our villages because the tarpaulin secured at the port is all flying and open as the trains reach to Velsao and Cansaulim area and this is the major cause of coal pollution,” said D’Souza.
