Say MPT, proponents presented misleading reports
the goan I network
VASCO
The speakers presented research material on all three expansion projects of MPT and the investigation reports prepared by them and later placed the information before the presiding officer as part of their submissions that MPT and other proponents had presented misleading EIA reports at the public hearing.
In his submission, Jacinto D’Souza of Khariwada said: “MPT came into existence only after the liberation in 1963 and during the Portuguese rule, it was called the Captain of Ports. Every fisherman had to take a licence before venturing out at sea for their catch.”
“MPT has failed to take all stakeholders, including the fishing community from Vasco and Baina, who are the real custodians of the sea, into confidence before finalising their projects,” D’Souza added.
Avinash Tavares said the people were not against development of the port, but are against handling of polluting cargo. “We want people-oriented development and MPT should promote tourism which will be beneficial for everyone,” said Tavares.
“Each cruise liner brings about 3,000 tourists and if only 2,000 of them spend an average of Rs 1,000 each, it would generate Rs 20 lakh revenue to the State and MPT would also benefit through
its duty free shops,” added Tavares.
While the public hearing on dredging activity concluded at 5 pm, the third and final public hearing on work to re-develop Berths 8, 9 and barge berths for multi-cargo activity will take place on Thursday, following requests from people that they had to celebrate the feast of the Cross at Khariwada on Wednesday evening.
