PANAJI
Executive members of Goencho Ekvott submitted a memorandum to the MP of Mormugoa Constituency (South Goa) Francisco Sardinha highlighting the issues of Sagarmala projects, Major Port authority bill and the three linear projects passing through Mollem protected forests, as all the projects were basically linked to transportation of coal through Goa in order to make it a coal hub.
Goencho Ekvott member Olencio Simoes enlightened the MP about the details of the Sagarmala Plan and all the work undertaken on this project. He clearly explained the ill-effects of Goa being declared as Coastal Economic Zone.
Olencio who has done detailed study of this project also informed the MP that CRZ amendment was being done just to favour MPT expansion plan and not to support any Goans. He further reiterated that as the width of Goan rivers is less, once the dredging is commenced it will lead to collapse of river banks & the mangroves.
Convenor of Goencho Avaz Capt Viriato Fernandes explained in detail the clauses of Major Port Authority bill which was passed in recently held Lok Sabha session. It was suggested to Sardinha to push for removal of MPT from the ambit of this bill, as Goa being a small state such a large infrastructure development will do severe damage to its ecological balance.
If MPT is not omitted than it will become a state within a state. Also alternative plans for the transportation of coal from the neighbouring states were suggested. The dispute regarding the survey number for the reclaimed land at Mormugao was discussed and how the MPT is flexing its muscle while disrespecting the elected representatives of Goa.
The MP assured the delegation that he will study the project and take up the matter with the authorities and extended his unconditional support to avoid damage to environment. He requested the team to submit him a copy of all the plans, study conducted and documents available with the organization.
