Assolda Villagers to March on Panaji Offices Over Zuari River Jetty Projects
Villagers from Assolda in Goa are preparing for a significant protest march to the offices of the Goa State Pollution Control Board and the environment board in Panaji on Monday. Their demonstration targets the recent recommendation for environmental clearance granted to two proposed jetty projects along the Zuari river. The community fears these jetties could pave the way for coal handling operations, posing severe risks to local health and the environment.
Background of the Controversial Clearance
The protest follows a decision by the Goa State Environment Appraisal Committee (GSEAC), which advised the Goa State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (GSEIAA) to grant environmental clearance to a mining firm. This clearance is for constructing a 336-square-meter cargo handling platform, a 237-square-meter storage jetty, and a 267-meter gabion wall to reinforce the existing river bund at Hodar and Xelvona in Quepem taluka. Although the approval is conditional on adherence to extensive ecological and biodiversity safeguards, it has sparked outrage among residents.
At a recent Assolda gram sabha, villagers unanimously decided to agitate, expressing deep alarm over the potential consequences. They argue that the projects are a disguised effort to enable coal transportation through their village, which could lead to environmental degradation and health hazards.
Voices of Opposition and Community Concerns
Chartered accountant Pradip Kakodkar from Curchorem, a prominent critic of the project, has been vocal in his condemnation. He stated unequivocally, "The sole purpose of having a jetty at Assolda is for coal handling." Kakodkar highlighted flaws in the official survey, noting, "There are a large number of coconut trees, mangroves, and fishing and agricultural activities here that will be destroyed by this jetty, yet the report is completely silent on all of this. We condemn this misleading survey and demand that the land be resurveyed in the presence of the villagers."
Kakodkar also called for widespread participation in the march, warning that the impacts of coal handling would extend far beyond Assolda. He emphasized, "The harmful effects will not be limited to Assolda or Hodor — they will affect every person living within a 10 km radius. Every resident of Curchorem must take time off and participate in this march to Panaji to question the authorities."
Key Issues and Demands
The villagers' protest centers on several critical issues:
- Environmental Threats: Potential destruction of mangroves, coconut trees, and disruption to fishing and agriculture.
- Health Risks: Concerns over air and water pollution from coal handling activities.
- Transparency: Demands for a resurvey of the land with community involvement to ensure accurate assessment.
- Community Mobilization: Efforts to rally support from neighboring areas to amplify their voice against the projects.
This protest underscores growing tensions between development initiatives and environmental preservation in Goa, with local communities taking a stand to protect their livelihoods and natural resources.
