Nitin Gadkari be warned! Your destructive plans for Goa stands exposed!

Goa Against Coal (GAC) denounces Shri Nitin Gadkari’s recent statements revealing his role in blindly serving the private interests of Adani and Jindal at incalculable cost to Goa and Goans. We reiterate our demand that ongoing coal handling in Goa be stopped, all expansion and infrastructure projects for coal be dropped, and that our rivers, seas and water bodies remain as commons to sustain Goan populations in general, and the fishing communities in particular. 

Documents perused reveal that there are plans to increase coal handled in Goa from present 12 million tonnes to 51 million tonnes at MPT itself. Khariwada and Baina fisherfolk are already fighting to survive displacement forced by misuse of CRZ laws and Government powers. The double tracking of the Vasco-Londa rail tracks and the widening/ construction of NH 17 A and B, NH 4 A and B and NH 17 are also being carried out for coal handling. After dredging of our rivers, coal brought by ships will be stacked in our fields and transported by road through our villages and wards. Dredging will destroy the lives of our rivers, turning them into lifeless navigation channels and displacing entire communities dependent on the river commons for subsistence and environmental security. This destruction of our socio-economy, especially fisheries, tourism and health, is only for profits for Adani and Jindal from ‘reduced freight charges’ (ample capacity exists on the east coast)!

The people of Goa are aware that the State and Central Governments have concealed this destructive master plan from the people. We know that works for coal infrastructure are being carried out as numerous small unrelated projects, thus concealing even the existence of the coal expansion plan. We have exposed Gadkari’s involvement and asked for CBI inquiry during the Public Hearing for dredging of Vasco Bay. Sensing strong opposition to his destructive mission in Goa and fearing inquiry in the future into his involvement, Gadkari has resorted to threatening to "bulldoze" the projects, calling us “microscopic minority", and making other veiled threats and accusations. 

Shri Nitin Gadkari, MPT, Adani and Jindal cannot be forgiven for causing grave environmental destruction by illegally dredging Vasco Bay and causing huge damage to the geological stability, ecology, marine life and fisheries of surrounding area. PWD (NH) and South Western Railways are also mindlessly bulldozing rail and road infrastructure for coal transportation through our villages. With his statement on tourism moving to Maharashtra, Shri Gadkari has exposed the larger plan to make Goa a coal hub for the benefit of Maharashtra tourism. Unfortunately, Goa’s own government is also a part of this plan to destroy Goa. 

The people of Goa are undeterred by threats to misuse powers bestowed by us. We overwhelmingly and rightly reject coal, just like we rejected SEZs. Instead, we want development of fisheries, agriculture and sustainable tourism. We therefore demand that both our Governments drop all plans for coal expansion and stop all coal operations, failing which we will take all measures necessary to defend the environment, economy and society of Goa from the blind greed of a few. 

Custodio D’Souza

Convenor

 

Tel: 9637891412

 

Bharat Mukti Morcha press release on Goa Coastal People's grievances

1.    Bharat Mukti Morcha (BMM) condemns double standards followed in undertaking demolition on Goa Coast. In Baina, people’s houses were demolished on 26^th September 2015. In 2009 when Supreme Court ordered demolition of portion of Cidade de Goa hotel State Government came out with Ordinance to protect starred hotel and change the law. Ordinance was soon ratified in the Goa Legislative Assembly. Why no ordinance is passed to protect coastal dwellers? Similarly Hotel Grand Hyatt is found illegal by Goa Bench of Bombay High Court in for violating CRZ laws. Yet the Hotel is allowed to operate by paying fines. Why this duplicity? BMM calls for halt to any GCZMA initiated demolitions at Katem, Baina till starred Hotels Grand Hyatt and Cidade de Goa are demolished. BMM is aware that Baina demotions are carried on to facilitate MPT expansion. BMM calls for safeguarding of Baina Bay as well as Vasco Bay for fishing.

2.     BMM Calls for repeal of laws allowing casino gambling in Goa and stop casino installation at Hotel Grand Hyatt, Bambolim. BMM has submitted the letter dated 30/09/2015 to Chief Minister as Casinos has converted Goa into a brothel of India.

3.     Traditional Fishermen in Zuari River are facing threats from Mechanized fishing vessels. BMM has called for dismissal of Director of Fisheries Dr.Shamila Monteiro for her failure to implement ban on trawlers within 5 kms from the shore. BMM had meetings with Director of Fisheries and Secretary to Fisheries yet Goa, Daman and Diu Fisheries Regulation Act, 1980 remains unimplemented. Chief Secretary has refused to grant appointment too. Fisheries Minister Avertano Furtado exhibited arrogance on 3/9/2015 over the phone with Rohidas Andrade, BMM Bambolim convener.

4.     BMM calls upon MPT to cancel the two lease deeds signed on 12 and 14 October 2010 for 30 years with Kargwal Constructions Pvt Ltd and Yacht Heaven Pvt.Ltd of Chowgule to set up Marinas in Zuari River as they will adversely affect fishing. Chowgule by mining already caused water depletion in Sirgao and drying up of over 300 wells in Mayem.

5.    BMM condemns resumption of water sports activities by Aqua Sail on 04/10/2015 in Zuari River affecting fishermen from Cacra, Nauxim, Bambolim, Siridao and Odxel.

6.    500 people signed BMM letter of 13/08/2015 asking Bambolim Panchayat to revoke N.O.C granted to two mobile towers in Bambolim and Nauxim villages. 120 people has signed BMM letter dated 30/07/2015 to the Goa State Pollution Control Board urging to revoke the permissions granted to install mobile towers in Nauxim and Bambolim.

Sd/-

Maggie Silveira,

President, Goa Unit

Bharat Mukti Morcha condemns Baina demolitions

Bharat Mukti Morcha strongly condemns demolition of people's houses at Baina beach on 26th September 2015 under the direction from Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority. 157 houses were demolished in order to clear up the beach. Bharat Mukti Morcha observes double standards in enforcing the CRZ regulations in Goa. Bharat Mukti Morcha calls for immidiate halt to any future demolitions at Katem-Baina.

The Supreme Court of India, on January 21, 2009 had ordered demolition of a portion of Cidade de Goa, owned by Fomento Resorts and Hotels that houses 54 hotel rooms besides a health club, conference and business rooms and other facilities. Goa Government instead of demolishing the hotel changed the law through ordinance to amend a 114-year-old law in order to save a portion of a five-star resort.

Demolition was ordered as the hotel management violated certain guidelines in the agreement reached between the government and the resort and three months were given to implement the order. At this juncture State Cabinet decided to promulgate an ordinance amending the Land Acquisition Act, 1894 so that the government is empowered to modify any agreement with the hotel management to meet any exigencies. At that time employees association had pointed out that around 650 jobs would be lost, if demolition takes place. All this is recorded in times of India report available online at the links:

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/Goa-to-bring-ordinance-to-save-five-star-resort/articleshow/4194603.cms

Government it appears was concerned about jobs of 650 people and now careless about houses where more than 2000 people stay for many decades. The point is that Cidade de Goa was protected through ordinance route and then ratified in Goa Legislative Assembly for the reasons of race. Audhoot Timblo who owns the Hotel Cidade de Goa, Digambar Kamat then Chief Minster of Goa as well as Manohar Parrikar, then Leader of the Opposition are all Euressian Bamons. Ordinance was passed to protect Bamon Raj. In Baina no Bamon is affected and all the people are mulnivasis.

Again we see the similar situation in case of Hotel Grand Hyatt in Bambolim. The high court of Bombay at Goa on 25th February 2014 delivered a split verdict on a petition filed by two NGOs against Hotel Grand Hyatt and others at Bambolim for illegal constructions in a no-development zone (NDZ). Justice Roshan Dalvi directed demolitions of constructions within 100m of the high tide line (HTL) of the river bank, while justice F M Reis set aside the permissions granted and ordered the authorities to examine the revision/re-validation of the plan afresh. Justice Reis ordered exemplary and punitive costs on the respondents and directed Goan Real Estate and Construction Ltd and Goan Hotels & Clubs Pvt Ltd to pay Rs 25,00,000.

That means both the Judges found Hotel Grand Hyatt illegal. One Judge advocated demolition while other one ordered exemplary punishment.

Then on 22nd January 2015 Justice U V Bakre in his judgment has agreed with the findings of Justice F M Reis, who in his judgment had sought penalty and revalidation of the construction of hotels at Bambolim, and not demolition. That means Hotel Grand Hyatt was protected and construction carried on illegally in no-development zone was condoned and allowed to exist. Why then demolition in Baina? This is recorded in Navhind Times report :

http://www.navhindtimes.in/bambolim-illegal-construction-judge-upholds-punitive-costs-revalidation/

We understand that people of Baina are no Eurasian Bamons. They are mulnivasis living on beach, engaged in hard work, fishing and other type of work. We are also aware that MPT has plans to establish its control over Baina Beach.

Threat of displacement and disruption of fishing activites to the people living on coast at Baina, Khariwada, Desterro etc near Vasco due to aggression perpetuated by MPT plans of expansion

Date: 28^th April 2015

To,

The Chairman

Mormugao Port Trust (MPT),

Headland Sada, Mormugao, Goa

To,

The Commissioner & Secretary (Ports)

Government of Goa,

Chamber No. 203

3^rd Floor, Secretariat,

Porvorim, Goa.

Subjects:

1. Fishing rights violations in Zuari river affecting villagers of Odxel, Cacra, Nauxi, Bambolim, Siridao, Dona Paula, Agassaim, Goa Velha, Cortalim, Sancoale etc due to MPT proposed marinas

2. Threat of displacement and disruption of fishing activites to the people living on coast at Baina, Khariwada, Desterro etc near Vasco due to aggression perpetuated by MPT plans of expansion

Sir,

At the first instance we write to you to express our complete opposition to the Mormugao Port Trust (MPT) proposed two Marinas in Zuari river to cater to the high end tourists. One of them is in Bambolim and second one in Sancoale as per declaration of Acting Chairman and Deputy Chairman of MPT Mr.Cyril George to press on April 8, 2015 in Panjim. The villagers engaged in fishing activities in Tiswadi taluka are directly affected specially from the villages of Odxel, Cacra, Nauxi, Bambolim, Siridao, Agassaim, Goa Velha, and Dona Paula are affected in North Goa while Sancoale, Cortalim, etc villages are affected in South Goa. The decision of MPT to construct Marinas earlier in Nauxi was opposed on 05 December 2010 and the links to Times of India report is here for your ready reference:

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/goa/Nauxi-meet-opposes-MPT-marina-plans/articleshow/7049993.cms

Villagers successfully opposed this ill-conceived project of the MPT and now after four years and four months is sought to implement the same project all over again, this time in Bambolim and additional one at Sancoale.

Curca-Telaulim-Bambolim Panchayat in fact passed Gram Sabha resolution against proposed marina on January 30, 2011 on grounds that it would adversely affect the traditional fishing activities of the villagers. The villagers also argued that the waterfront would spell ecological disaster to the village as it require dredging of the river and construction on the waterfront both of which would affect the flow of water. You may access links online of the report published in Times of India:

http://goachronicle.com/gram-sabha-opposes-mpts-marina-project/

The village Panchayat of Curca-Telaulim-Bambolim-Nauxim Gram Sabha on 19^th April 2015 has already expressed its unanimous opposition to the proposed Marinas in Zuari river. Why should serving high end tourists in the form of marinas spell dead end to local fisher people on the banks of Zuari river? This is important to answer. 

Our understanding is that this decision is declaration of war against indigenous people as first land was taken over for Goa University, International Centre, Aldeia de Goa, Grand Hyatt, and now Zuari river too is being taken away without our consent. Truly arrogant plus dictatorial way of functioning intended towards complete destruction of livelihood based on fishing threatening food security. Aldeia de Goa and Grand Hyatt are starred hotels serving tourists and are illegitimately occupying land of local tribal people’s homeland. This is nature of aggression perpetuated on indigenous people of Goa in the name of tourism on land. And now this aggression on indigenous people including ST. OBC people has been extended into Zuari river. We have not forgotten MPT aggression on Cacra village in 1997 when it permitted Timblos to construct Offshore Stockyard and Berth (OSB) that was opposed successfully by the villagers.

Kindly convey our views of firm opposition to your seniors at the Union Ministry of Shipping as pleasure of high end tourists cannot be allowed to take priority and push fishing communities into dead end.

At the Second instance we write to you to express our solidarity with the people residing at Baina, Khariwada and Desterro near Vasco. These people are living on coast and we have learnt that MPT expansion plans are all set to prompt their eviction from the coast. Further we have also learned from the reports in the press viz Navhind Times dated 13^th April 2015 that large number of fisher people are staying on the beach side for many generations and MPT’s plans for expansion is directly putting their fishing activities in jeopardy. Here is an online link for your reference: 

http://www.navhindtimes.in/jetty-work-save-our-houses-livelihood-demand-khariwada-traditional-fishermen/

We are aware that Old Cross Fishing Canoe Owners Co-operative Society has already served memorandum dated 15^th April 2015 to your office on 17^th April 2015 over the subject matter of fishing activities at Khariwada. The copy of this document has been made available to Bharat Mukti Morcha. The issue was discussed at the meeting of Bharat Mukti Morcha with fishermen’s organisations on 21^st April 2015 and decided to extend full support and solidarity to their struggle. After studying the issue we realized that these coastal dwellers are being sort to absorb into exploitative structures of bondage and slavery due to expansion plans of MPT into their dwelling and fishing spaces and we object totally to MPT plans.

These traditional fishermen known as “Ramponkars” were carrying on the activities of fishing over the coastal belt of Kharewada up to coast of El-Monte. Due to expansion of MPT reaching upto Berth No.11 lots of fishing spaces are drastically reduced.  And the current expansion plans will lead to displacement of fishers as well as non-fisher people staying on the coast. Interests of MPT are directly clashing with interests of fishing communities’ needs of dwelling, livelihood and life with dignity.

Similar fate also awaits residents of Baina beach. From the discussions with fishermen it was revealed that the expansion plans of MPT encompasses entire Baina bay. The document published on Union Ministry of Shipping website titled “Perspective Plans for Major Ports” on page 18 lists out Baina Bay and Vasco Bay development as opportunity for MPT in scheme of SWOT analysis carried on by MPT consultants M/s Halcrow Consulting & Ernst Young. It’s clear from this document that what fishermen on both these shore are expressing is well grounded in reality. There is no scope for either Goans or non-Goans to survive as evictions will be of all and debate fermented by Goa CM Parsekar and Karnataka Minister Deshpande on 8^th April 2015 and reported next day in Tarun Bharat has no basis. We oppose eviction of both Goans and non-Goans, legal and illegal as both are mulnivasis of India and interpretation and implementation of law in Goa is bended favoring rich entities like Hotel Cidade de Goa and Grand Hyatt to give two examples..

Fisher and other people are living on the coast of both Baina Bay as well as Vasco Bay far before MPT was established in 1885 and CRZ law enacted in 1980s and MPT has no right to displace them at its whims and fancies even if some have settled there later. Bharat Mukti Morcha is aware that MPT tried unsuccessfully to get rid of coastal people few years ago through litigations but failed. Due to this Vasco Municipality was roped in to file cases of CRZ violations on coastal dwellers so that they are pushed out of the beach so that MPT will have ready possession of the Beaches. We also learned that few years ago there was move by MPT to get these people out with the intervention of few public spirited people that move was foiled after protests.

The above cited document from the Ministry of Shipping, New Delhi has interesting mission and vision statement for MPT. It reads “Mormugao Port Trust wishes to be the preferred port for the reason, recognized for its environmental policies, efficiency in cargo handling and services to customers, providing quality of life for the work force and support the community.” We must let you know that your expansion plans in Vasco Bay, Baina Bay, Marina at Sancoale and Marina at Bambolim is opposite of recognizing MPT for environmental policies and support to the community. These projects are part of absurd environmental policies and completely against community. In fact both these projects are declaration of war against the community.

Therefore Bharat Mukti Morcha expresses total opposition to the expansion plans of MPT into Vasco Bay, Baina Bay, Zuari River for marinas at Sancoale and Bambolim for the reasons of displacement of the people living on the beaches and disruption of fishing activities.

Bharat Mukti Morcha calls upon you as responsible officer of Mormugao Port Trust -that is governed by Major Port Trust Act 1963 - to call off MPT plans of expansion into Vasco Bay and Baina Bay affecting people at Baina, Khariwada and Destorro as well as Zuari river proposed Marinas at Sancoale and Bambolim at the earliest.

Awaiting your early and prompt action,

Thanking you,

Yours sincerely

Sd/-

Maggie Silveira

President, Bharat Mukti Morcha, Goa State

Sd/-

Mohammad Saleem

Convener, Bharat Mukti Morcha, Vasco Unit

Sd/-

Sanjay Pereira

Convener, Bharat Mutkti Morcha, Cacra unit

Sd/-

Rohidas Andrade

Convener, Bharat Mukti Morcha, Bambolim unit

 Sd/-

Soccoro Braganza

Convener, Bharat Mukti Morcha, Siridao unit

Sd/-

Anthony Cardozo

Convener, Bharat Mukti Morcha, Curca Unit

Sd/-

Sitaram Pereira

Convener, Bharat Mukti Morcha, Odxel Unit

Sd/-

Milind Palkar

Convener, Bharat Mukti Morcha, Nauxi Unit

Sd/-

Chandrakant Lotlikar

Secretary, Bharat Mukti Morcha, Siridao Unit

Sd/-

Deu Kankonkar

Secretary, Bharat Mukti Morcha, Nauxi Unit

 Sd/-

Jeronio D’Souza

Co-convener, Bharat Mukti Morcha, Siridao Unit

Sd/-

Vishnu Kankonkar

Secretary, Bharat Mukti Morcha, Bambolim Unit