On hearing the facts shared by activists and experts about the rising pollution in Goa due to the fossil fuel industry’s mismanagement, government corruption and neglect of environmental concerns, there are clear similarities with Nigeria’s Niger Delta.
In Nigeria, major Western oil companies, with support from a corrupt government, made huge profits at the cost of the environment and people’s health. Land, air and water were contaminated, farming and fishing were destroyed, cancer rates rose, and a severe health crisis followed. Top officials received kickbacks, while those protesting were harassed, jailed or beaten by the Nigerian forces ” all well-documented facts.
The difference in Goa is that (A) Indian companies are involved, not foreign ones, (B) it’s coal, not oil, and (C) Goa is a transport hub, not a production centre. Yet the pattern is similar ” corrupt politicians enabling pollution for profit. Goans and residents must unite against coal before it becomes a bigger menace. If not for ourselves, let’s fight for our children and future generations. The corrupt government may silence some, but not all of us.
