Daijiworld Media Network – Panaji

Panaji, Sep 8: The influential Catholic Church in Goa has once again raised its voice against the South Western Railways (SWR) double-tracking project on the Hospet–Vasco route, calling it ecologically destructive and socially harmful.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the Diocesan Commission for Ecology of the Archdiocese of Goa and Daman said the project goes against public sentiment and violates the Supreme Court’s 2022 ruling that set aside wildlife clearance for the rail line passing through the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park.

“The Commission stands in solidarity with the Goan people and their just struggle. Sustainable and responsible development should never come at the cost of the environment or the well-being of the local population,” said Father Bolmax Pereira, convenor of the Commission and a doctorate in Botany.

Pereira cited the findings of the Central Empowered Committee (CEC), which described the project as “inefficient,” “unjustified,” and “potentially destructive,” warning of irreparable damage to the fragile ecosystem of the Western Ghats, a globally recognised biodiversity hotspot and wildlife corridor.

He added that the opposition has been strong and consistent since the project’s announcement, with local communities, activists, and civil society groups voicing concerns over environmental degradation and public health risks.

The Commission stressed that increased coal transportation along the route would worsen air pollution and expose residents to respiratory diseases and other health hazards.