PANJIM: Indirectly taking dig at those opposing handling of coal, Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar, on Sunday, said that ‘green Goa does not come only by opposing coal but one needs to actually contribute to it’. 

He made an attempt to send a message of environment protection by riding on a cycle during an event ‘NoMoZo’ in Porvorim. 

Parrikar, along with Revenue Minister Rohan Khaunte, was present for the special event ‘NoMoZo’ which means No Motor Zone organised by social institutions from Porvorim. 

After inaugurating the event, Chief Minister took a ride on a bicycle along the road which was marked as NoMoZo along with Khaunte, local MLA.

“Green Goa does not come only by opposing coal, you should actually contribute to it,” Parrikar said in an indirect reference to the activists opposing handling of coal. 

Parrikar said that he would love to use bicycle often, but is restrained due to the security cover he has been provided. “I would love to use bicycle in my daily travel but have to follow certain protocol which comes with security cover,” he stated. 

As a part of NoMoZo concept, the road was kept vehicle free with enthusiastic crowd performing dances, street plays and workshops on wealth out of waste. The martial art groups also displayed their skills during the event.

Chief Minister appreciated the efforts of the organisers and said that such kind of events should be held at least once in six months in each of the towns. He said that the concept would be revived in Panjim, where it was initially launched a couple of years back. 

Talking to reporters, Khaunte said that the aim of the event was to create 

opportunities for younger generation to come along with their parents and enjoy the day, away from the vehicular traffic.

“Everybody has kept their vehicles at home and come here today on foot. This will also help in reviving old traditions,” the minister said adding ‘the event will help the youth stay away from gadgets and social media for some time.’