the goan I network
PONDA
The sugarcane farmers are expected to demonstrate in front of Sanjeevani Sahakari Sakhar Karkhana at Dharbandora on Monday morning demanding that the government intervene and solve their problems before crushing season.
The farmers have raised concerns after the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has issued a closure order to Sanjivani Sahakari Sakhar Karkhana for failing to install online continuous monitoring station for effluent and stack emission.
Speaking to The Goan, the president of Us Utpadak Sanghatana (UUS) Rajendra Jivaji Desai, said that they are worried with the ongoing issue of closure of the karkhana (factory).
“The farmers from the state cultivate around 50 to 60 thousand tonnes of sugarcane. Hence if this karkhana (factory) stops operating, then we will face a problem in selling the sugarcane,” Desai said.
According to him, there are around 1000 members of UUS, who will face a tough time trying to sell the sugarcane.
“We have already engaged workers for harvesting. Around 700 workers have come for this work. How we will pay them if we are not able to sell the sugarcane,” Desai questioned.
Sources informed that the State achieves a turnover of around Rs 15 crores in regards to selling of sugarcane. Hence if the factory stops operating then it will impact on agriculture activities.
“Mining is already stopped in Goa, now if this factory too is shut down, then it will be a major problem for us. The government must intervene in this matter and opt for some measures. If the karkhana shuts, then it will have no option but to sell our sugarcane to other states,” he said.
