Locals have firmly opposed any plan to handle coal at the jetty, though they said they have no objection to iron ore operations, as in the past. Concerns have grown amid fears that, besides the existing two jetties, eleven more could be built for coal handling. Villagers have strongly opposed any such expansion.
Following complaints to the Curchorem Cacora Municipal Council, the jetty owner denied plans for new jetties, stating only existing facilities were being developed. He assured that coal would not be handled against villagers’ wishes. The council had planned a joint inspection to address concerns, but it was called off after security staff denied entry to villagers and municipal officials. Residents who had gathered since morning were left frustrated, while police were deployed to maintain order.
Sources said the cancellation followed a request from the jetty owner to the Deputy Collector of Quepem, citing possible law and order issues. Villagers rejected this claim and insisted on including their representatives, leading to the inspection being scrapped and tensions rising further.
