Team Herald
VASCO: The Chairman of Mormugao Port Trust (MPT) has informed that though the port has been currently facing severe financial problems, its commitment to fishing harbour for Khariwado fishermen would continue and the same would surely become a reality.
“Despite the financial problems, our commitment to a fishing harbour will continue. We are asking funds from Central government so there is no need to worry. Whatever committed, it will continue and there will not be delay for the project from our side, though there is delay from Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB). Our plan is to start the fishing harbour work by April this year, but that is not happening because though we are fully prepared to start work, GSPCB is yet to process our request for public hearing,” Jeyakumar said.
“I am very sorry to say that though we submitted EIA report to GSPCB in October last year and we were expecting early public hearing, but till date GSPCB has not sent any letter to the collector for fixing public hearing. As per rule within seven days GSPCB is supposed to send it. I am not aware as to why it is not done, though we had requested all agencies involved,” he claimed.
“Also we ensured that all necessary works to kicks start the project time have been completed from our side. We ensured that the ship wreck that was coming in way of executing the project is removed. We have asked for funds to remove another two wrecks for which government agreed to give 50 percent and MPT will fund 50 percent,” Jeyakumar added.
On the financial position of the port, Jeyakumar said, “After the 2012 iron ore ban, we lost iron ore cargo and now the market for ore is dull with international prices are below 30 dollars. Last year and this year together we handled four million tonnes which is too less. Now coupled with this coal restriction, we have been facing serious financial challenges this year if the coal handing activity is not resumed then this year we are expecting Rs 90 crore losses. If it continues, then, next year it will be worse and we only hope that something will develop.”
“We have over 1400 employees and over 3400 pensioners and all of sudden you cannot stop the activity at the port. We have taken lots of mitigation measures to reduce pollution. Similarly JSW has promised to come up with dome structure to handle cargo. They are already in the process and are ready to invest Rs 55-60 crore. So with all the measures, our efforts are sincere and we as a responsible government port are responsible to the environment as well as to public at large. We cannot short-circuit norms and run away with that. We are not fly by night operation. Everybody has to understand the situation scientifically and practically,” Jeyakumar said.
