Plan to set up thermal power plant in Konkan generates heat

 
Angry mango farmers and fisherfolk in Ratnagiri district are questioning the decision to locate a 1200MW coal-based power plant at the stunning Jaigad creek on the Konkan coast. They are convinced it will pollute the air and adversely affect the extensive horticulture in the region. They say that their land was acquired for a steel plant but is now going to be used for a thermal power plant. Many grampanchayats in the region have passed unanimous resolutions opposing the project.

JSW Energy limited, part of the O.P.Jindal group, the company setting up the plant, says that its annual coal requirement of 4.14 million tones will consist of imported low sulphur coal and that it will adhere to all environment norms. But the farmers are not convinced. The fisherfolk who depend in Jaigad creek for their livelihood are also worried that the proposed port and the power plant will end their business.


(The Hindu, 11th March,2007)