PANAJI
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on nationalisation of Goa's seven rivers is likely to be effected within two months, the state government announced on Thursday.
Speaking on the floor of the House at the ongoing monsoon session of Goa Legislature, Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar stated, "The tripartite agreement between MPT, Inland Waterways Authority and Goa government will be finalised within next one or two months and the MoU will be signed. We have been assured that state government will have control over routes and operational exercise. The agreement will make us eligible for developmental
funding."
In response to a question tabled by Curtorim MLA Aleixo Reginaldo Lourenco, Minister for Ports Parrikar informed that 13 new jetties have been proposed.
"The proposal for nine non-floating jetties is in the initial stages and the Detailed Project Reports are being prepared. These will be funded through Sagar Mala project. The four floating jetties will receive more funding because the IWA will finance 50 per cent of the cost for these," Parrikar disclosed.
The Chief Minister assured the House that no steps will be taken in connection with the proposal for 13 jetties till the completion of Environment Impact Assessment studies.
Nine non-floating jetties include Ribander, Old Goa, Banastarim, Borim, Shiroda, Durbhat Cortalim, Piligaon and Aldona. The consultant has been appointed for preparation of DPRs for these projects.
Four non-floating jetties include the extension of Captain of Ports jetty at Panaji and Old Goa, jetty opposite of Dempo House in Panaji and jetty in Chapora River at west side of the Siolim-Chopdem bridge.
"Public consultation will be sought. Let the consultant study the environmental aspects and put up a report for scrutiny. At this moment, all projects are in DPR stage," he informed.
The government further clarified its stand on the issue of dredging of rivers and declared that only an EIA report can decide the extent of dredging required to clear the navigational channel of a river.
Responding to a supplementary query posed by Vasco MLA Jose Luis Carlos Almeida, CM Parrikar revealed that the No Objection Certificate from Corporation of City of Panaji is awaited for initiation of construction of new terminal building at Captain of Ports jetty at Panaji.
