Vasco: Hundreds of residents from Headland-Sada and adjoining areas on Wednesday issued a three-day ultimatum to coal handling companies operating at the Mormugao Port Authority (MPA), demanding immediate measures to curb the persistent foul odour and coal dust pollution allegedly emanating from the berths. Failing compliance, locals warned they would enter the premises and halt operations.The protest march towards the coal berths was led by Mormugao MLA Sankalp Amonkar amid heavy police deployment.The agitation follows an earlier report by TOI on Jan 29 highlighting public concern over the odour and suspected emissions linked to coal handling. Subsequently, deputy collector and sub-divisional magistrate Bhagwant Karmali convened an emergency meeting on Feb 4, directing coal handling agencies to take urgent corrective steps. Residents alleged the directives were not effectively implemented.“We are not against the coal handling operations, but our concern is that the companies involving Adani and SWPL should take immediate corrective steps to stop the foul smell and coal dust pollutions which has made the life of the common men miserable, affecting mainly the people residing in Headland-Sada,” said Amonkar.“I have raised the issues several times in assembly sessions about the serious hazard caused while handling the coal at MPA’s berths and have further consistently requested state govt to initiate prompt actions against the coal handling companies. Although the coal handling companies have started erecting windshield barriers and have proposed for the installation of dome facilities, it is not enough to stop the menace of foul smell and coal dust pollutions. These companies should come out with strategic plans which would help the people to breathe clean and fresh air,” he added.Security personnel prevented protesters from entering the berths. A memorandum was later submitted to berth officials reiterating the three-day deadline.MMC chairperson Girish Borkar, who joined the protest, said, “The councillors of MMC would also support the agitated locals of Headland-Sada and further adopt a resolution to act strict against the coal handling companies in order to stop the menace of foul smell and coal dust pollution that has affected hundreds of people.”On Tuesday evening, former power minister Milind Naik also led a protest over the issue, calling the recurring odour and dust a serious health concern.
There have been allegations from the people of Vasco and NGOs that the port town is suffering because of coal handling at the port
