Port officials skip meeting as councillors seek action roadmap
VASCO
In a fresh push against coal pollution in Mormugao, Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC) Chairperson Girish Borker on Wednesday convened a special joint meeting with various departments to discuss the environmental and health concerns arising out of coal handling operations.
However, representatives of the port authority and coal handling units remained absent, drawing sharp reactions from elected members.
The meeting was attended by councillors and local MLA Sankalp Amonkar, who stressed the need for a clear and time-bound roadmap to halt coal handling activities in the region. The absence of officials from the port and coal operators was viewed seriously, with councillors stating that the issue could no longer be ignored.
Addressing the gathering, Amonkar said that concrete steps must be worked out to protect the health of residents.
“Coal handling must be stopped in the interest of our future generations. The impact on air quality and public health is a matter of grave concern,” he said, adding that sustained efforts were required rather than symbolic gestures.
Several councillors resolved to pass formal resolutions opposing coal handling and decided to urge Amonkar to convene a high-level joint meeting with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to discuss the way forward. They maintained that the matter required intervention at the highest level to arrive at a lasting solution.
Amonkar assured the council of his full support in taking up the issue with the State government. At the same time, he cautioned against turning the sensitive issue into a political tool, especially with the council and assembly elections drawing closer.
“This is not the time for political stunts. The focus must remain on safeguarding public health and the well-being of Mormugao,” he said.
The council is now expected to formally adopt resolutions and press for a comprehensive action plan aimed at stopping coal handling operations in the port town.
