The news in the print and electronic media about inviting consultants to study the possibility of a port at Betul has raised serious concern among local fisherfolk. This river stretch is rich in shellfish such as clams, mussels, prawns and crabs. The local people have depended on this for their livelihood for many years. Having two ports and two airports in a small State like Goa is unnecessary.
The Mopa airport is being promoted by the casino lobby, which owns large tracts of land for casino and gaming projects. In the same way, the proposed Betul port appears to be backed by the coal lobby and large business groups to boost coal transport.
If the Betul port project goes ahead, it will deal a severe blow to the fishing industry in the area, as heavy dredging will be needed to allow large vessels. I humbly request the authorities to consider the livelihood of local people before giving any approval to this project.
