Goa Not a Lab for Risky Experiments, Says Congress on Nuclear Proposal
Panaji : Amit Patkar, President of the Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC), on Sunday strongly opposed the Centre’s proposal to explore the possibility of setting up a nuclear power plant in Goa, calling it “reckless” and a “direct threat” to the State’s ecology, economy, and public safety.
Addressing the media in Panaji, Mr. Patkar criticised Union Power Minister Manohar Lal Khattar’s recent statement suggesting the establishment of a nuclear power facility in the State. The Minister, during his official visit to Goa, had reviewed ongoing power and urban development projects and called for a roadmap towards power self-sufficiency, including the consideration of a nuclear energy unit.
Reacting sharply, Mr. Patkar said, “Goa is not a dumping ground for hazardous experiments. This proposal is unacceptable and will be opposed with full force.” He alleged that the move reflects the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) disregard for Goa’s environmental sensitivity and public interest.
Ecological concerns
The Congress leader expressed concern that such a project would adversely impact the State’s fragile ecosystems, particularly the biodiversity-rich Western Ghats region, and jeopardise the livelihoods of communities dependent on tourism and traditional fishing.
“The State lacks the geographical, hydrological and emergency infrastructure required to safely manage a high-risk nuclear facility,” Mr. Patkar said. Citing global nuclear disasters such as those in Chernobyl and Fukushima, he questioned the logic behind introducing nuclear power in a coastal State like Goa.
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Call for renewable alternatives
Mr. Patkar argued that nuclear power is no longer considered a viable long-term solution due to high costs, toxic waste generation, and its dependence on large quantities of water. “Instead of investing in hazardous and outdated technology, the government should focus on cleaner, renewable alternatives like solar and wind energy,” he said.
The GPCC chief further alleged that the BJP-led government’s push for the project was politically motivated and aimed at benefiting corporate interests. He accused the government of previously causing “irreversible damage” through deforestation, land acquisition, and infrastructure development that, according to him, disrupted Goa’s rivers, forests, and farmlands.
Stating that the Congress Party would oppose the proposal at every level, Mr. Patkar warned of statewide agitations and legal interventions if the Centre proceeds with the plan. “We will resist this attempt — in the Assembly, on the streets, and in the courts,” he said, appealing to civil society, environmental groups, and citizens across political affiliations to join in protest.
“The future of Goa cannot be negotiated. Our land and legacy must be preserved,” Mr. Patkar added.
