Team Herald
Vasco: Over 50 anti-coal activists and Greens from various groups in Goa came together at the Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) junction in Vasco to to protest against coal transportation and pollution which takes place due to coal handling.
Some protestors were not even allowed to enter the Port Town while the few who were present in Vasco were forced by the police to restrict their protest.
Protestors held placards displaying messages to save Goa, and its environment and oppose coal transportation.
Police personnel moved protestors away from the IOC junction road who were trying to protest.
Speaking to media, Nuvem-based Environmental activist Zarina D’cunha said, “Many activists from various groups came together to send a message to the govt which seems to be in a no mood to listen to the people of Goa. Our message was to save Goa from the coal pollution”.
She said, “The environment of Goa is taking its toll on the people because of hazardous cargo of coal. Just because Goans are quite and peaceful people, Goa should not be polluted. The police presence at the site clearly shows that the MPT and govt are scared of protestors. Coal handling and transportation should not happen just to benefit few corporates at the cost of peoples lives,” said Zarina.
A protestor from Goencho Rakhondar group said, “Despite several agitations, protests and opposition from the people against coal transportation the govt is not ready to stop coal transportation and is continuing with it. Therefore it is time for Goans to unite and overthrow all forty legislators and elect new faces in the upcoming assembly election”.
He said coal pollution has plagued the Vasco town and many people and families have health issues because of coal pollution. He also said those who have already tasted power should not be re-elected and all clean and new faces should be elected to power.
Around 100 police personnel, including lady police were present at the site. Police had placed barricades at Chicalim roundabout to stop more protestors from entering Vasco.
