Scrap nod to deepen port’s channel: GFP

Panaji: Slamming state govt for supporting the deepening of Mormugao Port channel, Goa Forward Party (GFP) on Thursday demanded that the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) withdraw the clearance granted to the project.

GFP’s environment cell convenor Vikas Bhagat said that the GCZMA’s nod will permit the Mormugao Port Authority to deepen the 9.7km-long approach channel to a depth of 19m.

This process will require the removal of 15 million cubic metres of sediment from the seabed.

“The primary purpose of this is to accommodate cape-size vessels which will be used for the transportation of coal,” Bhagat said.

The GCZMA has recommended to the Centre that environmental clearance be given to dredge the Mormugao Port’s approach channel and inner basin.

“We are spending crores to increase tourism but at the same time govt is increasing coal handling,” Bhagat further said.

Govt appears unclear about its intentions, Bhagat said, referring to the international cruise terminal that is being developed at the Mormugao Port.