Mormugao MLA Sankalp Amonkar has issued a strict three-day ultimatum to a coal handling company operating at the Mormugao Port, demanding immediate action to address severe environmental concerns. Accompanied by hundreds of agitated residents from surrounding areas like Headland-Sada and Sada Junction, Amonkar led a massive protest march directly to the port’s gates. During this demonstration, the MLA formally submitted a memorandum to the coal firm’s officials, outlining the community’s deep grievances over the persistent foul smell and coal dust pollution caused by the port’s ongoing operations.
The core of the protest stems from the unbearable stench and widespread air pollution that locals say have made daily life miserable and pose serious health risks. Amonkar issued a stern warning that if the company fails to implement immediate and effective corrective measures within the stipulated three-day deadline, he and the local residents will drastically escalate their agitation. He explicitly threatened direct action, stating that protesters are fully prepared to forcefully barge into the port premises and halt all coal handling activities if the hazardous issues persist.
The situation at the Mormugao Port remains tense, with heavy police deployment utilized to maintain order and prevent the large crowd of protesters from breaching the cargo berths. This recent escalation follows ongoing public frustration over the companies’ alleged failure to effectively implement safeguards, such as windshield barriers or domes, despite prior emergency meetings and directives from the local deputy collector to control the emissions. With the deadline steadily ticking down, the coal handling units are under immense pressure to present a concrete plan to mitigate the pollution, while local authorities remain on high alert for a potential face-off at the gates.
