VASCO, FEB 1
Was the last ditch effort of Khariwado fishermen a too little and too late to save their structures along the Khariwado shore from demolition?
Mormugao Port Trust (MPT) in its writ petition in 2009 had stated that the 366 structures within 50 mtrs from the high tide line were in MPT’s boundary line.
However, this issue along with the issue of fishing jetty have been deliberated for over one decade among the fishing community.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was also signed in 1998, which stated that 194 surveyed houses would be rehabilitated along with the fishing jetty.
The matter reached the High Court two years ago and since then politicians only made false assurances that the structures would be protected, but never made an effort to pursue the matter in the court strongly despite the MoU of rehabilitation. Sources in Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC) informed that after the petition was filed, show cause notices were issued to 363 structures.
“However, only 87 residents replied to the show cause notices, while 178 people had requested 15 days extension, off which only 99 people filed their reply,” informed sources.
Even after the extension period got over, 177 people didn’t file their reply and 186 people appeared before the council, which clearly suggests lethargic attitude of few people from Khariwado, said sources.
“Thirty people, who had approached for stay against demolitions, were granted stay,” added sources. “As most people were ignorant about the fact of matter in the court and financial constraint was a major concern, most people refrained from challenging before the court,” said Goa Fishing Boat Owner Association President Simon Pereira.
Pereira alleged that politicians are least concerned, as they have never made serious effort to make a point in the court that the MoU clearly says that rehabilitation of 194 surveyed structures should proceed with demolition.
Meanwhile, the fear among people is growing high with MMC seeking disconnection of electricity and water connections to these structures, while the demolition date has been set for February 7. It is learnt that former MMC chief officer N D Agarwal has been asked to take charge at MMC, as Agarwal is known for his strong stand during the infamous red light area Baina demolition.
