the goan I network
VASCO
Mindful of state-wide criticism to coal handling operations at the port, Mormugao Port Trust (MPT) Chairman I Jeyakumar has stated that pollution levels had drastically reduced in the last three months and were well within limits.
He was speaking to reporters after flagging off a sweeping machine as an initiative to fight dust pollution in Vasco on Friday morning.
"The MPT had installed various pollution reading monitors at various locations in the city and data has shown that pollution had drastically reduced in the last three months and well within prescribed limits," said Jeyakumar.
"Our endeavour is that the port and city should coexist together. This is a small beginning and we plan to repair road shoulders as well to avoid exposed soil. We also plan to have a paved footpath from IOC till the church and also plan to have improved drains to prevent water logging. We will also underwork of major roads so that the city gets a facelift," added Jeyakumar.
Claiming that MPT has one of the best coal handling operations, the chairman added, "the parliamentry committee has also seen we have handled it in a nice way. Sometimes in summer, we have high velocity winds and hence, we have covered cargoes and water is being sprayed."
On being asked about reports on river dredging, Jeyakumar informed that iron ore barges depend on tides for movement and smooth movement of iron ore barges could be ensured
after dredging of the river.
"We also plan to build many jetties along the Zuari and Mandovi rivers as identified by Captain of Ports. The government is funding projects identified by the CoP and we are only the executing agency," said Jeyakumar.
The Rs 30 lakh sweeping machine was flagged of by MPT Chairman I Jeyakumar and Vasco MLA Carlos Almeda in the presence of MMC Chairperson Deepak Naik, Councillor Nandadeep Raut, Councillor Yatin Kamurlekar and other officials.
The sweeping machine operated and maintained by MPT will work in the port during the day and along the city roads at night.
"MLA Carlos Almeda had requested the MPT for a sweeping machine and this machine was the need of the hour and help in the cleanliness of Vasco," said MMC Chairperson Deepak Naik.
"We are glad it is being operated and maintained by MPT. The MMC also had a sweeping machine, but it was difficult to maintain and hence, couldn't be put to proper use."
