VASCO
Claiming that he too was opposed to coal pollution, but not the linear projects, Power Minister Nilesh Cabral on Friday insisted that the Sagarmala report will not be implemented without the approval of the State government.
Speaking to reporters after inaugurating the washroom blocks for passengers at Dabolim Airport, Cabral said coal handling operations would be reduced by the State Government and issues raised by people could be resolved through discussions.
“Double-tracking is linked to the railways and the port, but the public conception that the tracks are only for coal is wrong.”
“I cannot blame people. The Sagarmala report by a consultant made reference to handling of coal to maximum quantity. The report, which was uploaded by the union shipping ministry on its website, had sparked off anger.”
“The report claimed that a huge quantity of coal will be handled after double-tracking. The Sagarmala report will not be implemented without the approval of the State government and we will not allow things not wanted in Goa and Goans.”
“We are in the process to seek a letter from the central government stating that certain things of the Sagarmala report will not be taken up in Goa port and we will get it uploaded on the union shipping ministry site again,” said Cabral.
“As far as trees being cut for the project, we can sign an MoU with the State government and the project proponent to have three times more trees planted in Goa at the location where trees are cut so that there are no environmental issues as well,” said Cabral.
Speaking on the issues raised by her party colleague Alina Saldanha, he said, “We can discuss her issue of houses being demolished and damaged by having discussions with the Railways. I am with her to find an amicable solution.”
