VASCO: The Chicalim gram sabha on Sunday resolved to oppose all three proposed expansion projects at Mormugao Port including Deepening of approach channel and inner basin for capesize vessels, redevelopment of berth number 8,9 and barge berth at MPT and terminal capacity enhancement at berth 5A and 6 A of MPT.
A host of other issues were discussed during the gram sabha chaired by Sarpanch Neelima Avdoot Naik.
The gram sabha discussed the main issue – the forthcoming public hearing for all three proposed expansion projects at MPT, wherein the members opined that such projects would destroy River Zuari biodiversity, besides the pollution in the port town will increase and hence such expansions should be opposed.
The villagers were informed that the environmental public hearing for the projects would take place on April 26, 27 and 28 at Tilak Maidan and that Chicalim villagers should attend it in large numbers. Finally the gram sabha resolved to oppose these project expansions at MPT as they are not in public interest.
The members too had a lengthy discussion on the issue of casino vessel which was anchored recently in the MPTs foreshore area at Chicalim. The issue was raised by the members of Chicalim Village Action Committee who informed the gram sabha that recently a casino vessel was seen anchored at Chicalim bay and it was only after they raised objections to the same, the vessel was removed. Later it was resolved to oppose any casino vessel at Chicalim bay, which is known for its marine biodiversity.
The villagers also raised their serious concerns over the non-removal of mobile tower at Chicalim which was erected during BRICS Summit 2016 in Goa. Sarpanch Neelima Naik informed the members that after last gram sabha the panchayat already initiated steps seeking its removal.
“If the villagers don’t need mobile tower at Chicalim then the Panchayat too would oppose it and we have started making efforts to remove the tower which has been installed inside the government school premises in Chicalim,” Naik assured.
The gram sabha passed a surplus budget of Rs 30 lakh for the financial year 2017-18. As per budget proposal, the panchayat expects income of Rs 2.51 cr while projected expenditure is Rs 2.21.
As only six out of 11 ward panchas attended the gram sabha and it was decided to take absentees to task by issuing them with notices.
