VASCO
Port stakeholders including stevedores, transporters, contractors, and machinery owners strongly opposed the sudden privatisation of Berths 10 and 11 at Mormugao Port Authority (MPA), claiming it has left many locals jobless and threatens thousands of livelihoods.
Speaking near the MPA gate on Monday, they said the move has sidelined traditional businesses. A memorandum was submitted to Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, urging him to reverse the decision.
Vinod Parkot from the Stevedores Association warned that privatising the last two active berths for local operators could shut down eight stevedoring firms and impact jobs like crane operators and labourers. “Despite multiple appeals, nothing has changed. The CM has now assured us he will call a meeting,” Parkot said.
Vasco Truck Association’s Hemant Shetgaonkar said the new company has brought in its own dumpers, pushing out local transporters. “Our trucks are idle. We demand a written 30-year assurance of business continuity or we will be forced to protest,” he said.
Milton Colasso pointed out that most other berths are already privatised. “Our staff face layoffs. We urge the port to allow open access to Berths 10 and 11,” he said.
Contractor Yogesh Patil added that even allied sectors are suffering. “We need urgent intervention,” he said. The associations clarified they are not against development, but demand inclusive participation.
