AAP Goa Slams BJP Over Double Tracking : “Coal Will Destroy Goa’s Future”

Goa Khabar : The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Goa leadership: President Adv. Amit Palekar, General Secretary (Campaign) Sandesh Telekar Dessai, and Vasco Leader Sunil Loran, strongly condemned the BJP government’s push for railway double tracking in Goa, calling it a fraud project designed solely for corporate profit at the cost of Goans’ health, environment, and economy.

The press conference began with a video of former Chief Minister late Shri Manohar Parrikar, who had himself opposed double tracking, clearly stating that Goa did not need such projects. “Today, Parrikar’s own party is betraying his legacy. The BJP that once claimed to protect Goa has now sold itself to corporate interests,” said Adv. Palekar.

Double Tracking: A Corporate Scam

AAP leaders emphasised that the double tracking project has nothing to do with public benefit. “It is purely for coal transportation, with the BJP and Goa CM showing no courage to stop it,” Palekar said.

Impact on People & Environment

The leaders warned of serious consequences if the project continues:

– Destruction of heritage houses and villages

– Coal dust pollution leading to severe health problems

– Loss of tourism due to environmental degradation

– Wildlife disruption from heavy freight movement

– Displacement of local communities

“Tourists will stop coming, businesses will collapse, and Goans’ health is already suffering. Local communities fear loss of property and suffocation under coal dust. Where coal thrives, no pharma or sustainable industry will come. The government’s plan to move 45 million metric tonnes of coal will destroy Goa’s economy and its environment,” said Sandesh Telekar Dessai.

Economic Collapse in Vasco

Once Goa’s economic lifeline, the Mormugao Port Trust (MPT) has now been largely privatised, leaving workers and small businesses in Vasco in distress. “Vasco got nothing in return. There is unemployment, no tourism, no new industries. Instead, jetties are being built to push coal into every corner of Goa. Is this development?” questioned Sunil Loran. He warned that cruise tourism and other industries would fail if coal expansion continues. “This is not just Vasco’s fight. Every Goan must stand up. Don’t mess with Goa, or the people will be forced to protest,” warned Loran.

AAP’s Stand

“Why is the government forcing this project on Goa when Goans don’t need it?”

AAP Goa declared that Goa, as a tourism state, must prioritise sustainable development, heritage conservation, and clean industries over coal and pollution.

AAP Goa demands an immediate halt to double tracking, coal expansion, and corporate-driven projects that threaten Goa’s people, economy, and environment.