While the world is moving away from fossil fuels to green sustainable forms of energy, our netas are ready to sell the future of Goa and its coming generations to industrialists whose sole intention is to earn profit from coal.
Do the authorities that be have no knowledge about the hazards to our environment and people from coal dust? In the past few years we have been suffering from layers of coal dust which settles in balconies of houses situated alongside arterial roads from the port.
The damage to the lungs from coal dust is not reversible. Over and above, this massive transportation of coal through Goa will devastate our population with ailments like asthma and related respiratory problems.
It is ironic that the blame is being shifted on the previous ruling dispensations for gradual expansion of coal handling in the State. We also now read of a new tourism policy which envisages berthing of cruise ships alongside coal terminals. The already staggering tourism industry in Goa could be dealt another blow by coal dust and failure of garbage management.
While we are aware of short term motivations driving the political class, it is imperative that the common man fights for his survival.
PAUL PEREIRA, Velim
