Villagers protest proposed jetties, coal transit in Assolda

Margao: Tensions ran high in Assolda village as residents gathered near the proposed site of two jetties in Xelvon to protest against the construction and coal transportation issues.

The demonstration followed a recent gram sabha meeting where a unanimous resolution was passed prohibiting the panchayat from issuing construction licences for the two jetties. Local MLA Nilesh Cabral, who attended the meeting, faced strong opposition from villagers. The proposed jetties and a road over bridge (ROB) over two railway gates were also major points of contention.

Social activist Aditya Dessai raised questions about the legitimacy of the approvals for the projects, noting that no objection certificates (NOCs) for the proposed jetties were granted by departments under the environment ministry during Cabral’s tenure as environment minister. Villagers expressed serious environmental concerns, warning of potential destruction to mangroves and coconut plantations. One resident alleged manipulation of data in the environment assessment report (EIA), claiming, “Jetties have been shown to exist where none exist, and existing paddy fields haven’t been shown.”

The villagers also voiced apprehension about the proposed railway overbridge (ROB) at Xelvon, suggesting it would primarily facilitate increased coal transportation rather than benefit residents. After hearing the grievances, MLA Cabral assured villagers of his support in opposing the project.