PORVORIM: Expressing concern over coal pollution in the state, Goa BJP MLAs demanded that the state government stop excess coal handling at Mormugao Port Trust (MPT).
Vasco MLA Carlos
Almeida said that MPT stopped coal handling at berth number 10 and 12 in 2012. He also said that the state government should probe the cause of air pollution.
Almeida asked what action has been taken against
South West Port Limited (
SWPL) for handling double the amount of permitted quantity of coal, which has "spoiled the air quality" in Vasco.
Almeida said SWPL should handle coal within the permissible limit and demanded that a study be conducted on the affect of coal pollution on the health of locals.
"We have no proof of the affect of coal pollution on health and people in Vasco keep complaining. Chief minister, could we have a health study?" he asked, seeking
Manohar Parrikar's assurance that no excess coal will be handled at MPT.
Curchorem MLA Nilesh Cabral expressed his support to the resolution and excess amount of coal is being handled, violating the guidelines provided by the Goa State Pollution Control Board. "Excess coal handling should stop," Cabral asserted.
Mormugao MLA Milind Naik said coal pollution and coal handling must be looked at as two different issues. "Companies are in touch with me and they have assured to take measures to control air pollution. The main issue is to control pollution and not to go against any business," he added.
Cortarim MLA
Alina Saldana requested Parrikar to ensure that no more coal is handled until the pending quantity is dealt with.
Calangute MLA Michael Lolo said, "If coal pollution is not controlled, we will be blacklisted and no passenger cruise will visit Goa".
Lobo demanded that Parrikar makes sure that the GSPCB order to reduce coal by 25% be strictly implemented. "Let us approach the central government to shift coal handling to neighbouring states," Lobo said.
