Memorandum with 1,500 signatures submitted
Hundreds of residents gathered at Sada Junction and marched to the company gate in protest on Wednesday.
VASCO
Tension spread across Mormugao on Wednesday after MLA Sankalp Amonkar gave coal handling companies at the port three days to stop coal dust pollution and foul smell. He warned that if the problem is not controlled, operations will be shut down.
Hundreds of residents from Sada, Boggda, Jetty and Rumdawada gathered at Sada Junction and marched to the company gate in protest.
People said coal dust and a strong smell have again started affecting homes. Many raised health concerns and said they were angry.
Speaking outside the premises, Amonkar said a memorandum with nearly 1,500 signatures from local residents has been given to a coal handling unit. The letter asks the company to show clear results within three days. “If coal pollution and the smell do not stop in three days, we will enter the premises and halt operations,” Amonkar said. He added that thousands of people are ready to join if needed.
The statement was welcomed with loud cheers. Many protesters said they have faced pollution for years.
Slogans were raised at the gate and police were deployed to prevent any trouble. Deputy Collector of Mormugao Bhagwant Karmali supervised the security arrangements.
After announcing the deadline, Amonkar urged people to stay calm but firm. The crowd later dispersed peacefully.
The administration had earlier stepped in after complaints. Karmali had held a meeting with officials of the Mormugao Port Authority and the company. An inspection followed and instructions were issued to take immediate steps to control dust and odour. However, residents said the situation has not improved. Amonkar said he has been opposing coal pollution for the past eight years, even before he became MLA.
He noted that steps like building a coal handling dome were taken last year, but said stronger safeguards are still needed.
The protest also had political signals ahead of the coming elections. Without naming anyone, Amonkar criticised a former MLA and minister, saying those who stayed silent earlier are now speaking for votes. He said the matter is about public health and not politics.
With the three-day deadline now running, the company is under pressure to act. Officials are on alert as residents wait to see whether steps will be taken or if there will be a face-off at the port gate.
