approval given as Cumbarjua set to become alternative route for vessels after closure of Aguada canal
PANAJI
The Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) has approved the trimming and pruning of mangroves in the Cumbarjua Canal. The Captain of Ports (CoP) wants to open the canal for navigation after the closure of the Aguada canal.
The Authority has stated that the trimming should not disturb the geo-morphological structures or the mangrove vegetation. It has also directed the CoP to get all necessary permissions from the concerned authorities, including the forest department.
The approval was given after the forest department confirmed that branches with a girth of less than 10 cm can be trimmed under relevant forest rules. However, as per the CZMP 2011, there is no provision for carrying out such trimming.
In its proposal, the CoP said that with the Aguada channel set to close, the Cumbarjua waterway will be used as an alternative route for inland vessels for trade, connecting the Mandovi river to the Zuari river.
“The Beacons that are currently installed at key locations along the Cumbarjua waterway which are critical for navigation have been covered by mangroves. Also, due the growth of mangroves the line of sight visibility and maneuverability are severely hampered, both of which are critical for navigation of inland vessels,” the CoP said.
The CoP added that the size of barge vessels makes it difficult to manoeuvre, especially around turns in the narrow canal, and the overgrowth of mangrove branches further restricts visibility and reduces the width of the canal, making it harder for vessels to pass.
With ferry boats frequently using the route, visibility is a key concern to avoid accidents, the CoP said.
