N-PLANTS ALONG COASTLINE DISTURBANCE TO ENVIRONMENT SAYS MATHANY

Expressing strong resentment over the draft Coastal Regulation Zone notification 2010, National Fishworkers Forum have alleged that granting of permission for setting up nuclear plants along the coastline would have adverse effect on the environment.

Speaking at a one-day seminar on ‘CRZ-2010 Draft: Responses & Challenges’ at Dona Paula, NFF acting chairman Matanhy Saldanha claimed the draft notification as ‘bundle of contradictions’ resulting in weakening the agenda on protecting coastal environment.

“The draft notification gives blanket permission to set up nuclear plants along the coastline. Safety of the people residing in these areas is one concern that immediately hits you in the eye…similarly, the notification permits setting up thermal plants along the coastline,” he criticized.

The former tourism minister expressed anguish that despite Government knowing this would result in marine environment degradation, the latter is seeking setting up more such plants along the coastline which in long term would displace traditional fishermen and destroy traditional occupations. “These are significant disturbance in the water quality and quantity as it is used for the cooing tanks and various other processes involved. No study whatsoever has been undertaken to determine the effects…” he rued citing one of the reasons to object setting up nuclear plants along the coast.

The seminar organized by International Centre of Goa, National Institute of Oceanography and Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry also highlighted on the reverse consequence as a result of construction of ports. Saldhana pointed out that beaches in Canacona have undergone a massive change ever since the Indian Navy developed its Sea Bird project further South at Karwar. He vehemently compared Mormugao Port Trust to Special Economic Zone of Goa. “MPT does whatever it wants…I stand by what I say…Every private company wants to have their own private port least bothering on the profits or environmental hazards,” he complained.

Shooting further grievances regarding the CRZ draft, he expressed apprehensions over the ‘hazard line’, fearing it would result in destruction of cliffs and plateaus alongside the coast.

The acting chairperson expressed disappointment towards the Government attitude that the main demand of right to life and livelihood of the traditional occupants of the coastline hitherto is not considered.

Former TTAG President Ralph D’Souza remarked that any further degradation would result in the downfall of Goa’s hospitality.

CRZ draft, which has been amended at least 25 times ever since it was introduced also suffers setback around sensitive zones restricting development and other activities closeby, Centre for Earth Studies at Thiruvananthapuram K V Thomas speaking on ‘Setback lines for CRZ-Different Approaches and Implications’ explained through a slide show presentation.