New Delhi: Former Union Minister and Congress MP Jairam Ramesh on Sunday stressed the Modi government to consider the marine biodiversity and coastlines of the nation while speaking about the Sagarmala project.
Ramesh was addressing a virtual talk arranged by Poovulagin Nanbargal – a Tamil Nadu based environment protection NGO. He spoke on various range of issues including the Sagarmala Project, Central Vista, Neutrino and Coal mining issues.
Speaking about the Sagarmala Project, he said, “Center should consider the protection of coastal lines and marine biodiversity. People are aware of land biodiversity and not putting their attention on marine biodiversity. The change in marine biodiversity will have many implications on people’s lives.”
The former Minister, while speaking on the ongoing coal mining issue, urged the centre to learn lessons from the past disastrous effects.
Neutrino Project which has been objected by the locals of Theni in Tamil Nadu is unwanted according to Ramesh.
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“When I was the Minister for Environment and Forest, we had chosen a spot first for neutrino project. However, when assessed the spot, we came to know that there are plenty of risk factors that would surface. Therefore, we had done a thorough study and decided the second spot which is located in TN. However, people and MDMK general secretary Vaiko are objecting that. As I had assessed the project, I am aware there is no risk in implementing the project in that particular spot,” Ramesh opined.
He also slammed the Union Government’s Central Vista Project saying it is a short-sighted one.
“This is not the right time to implement the central vista project. The government should divert Rs 30000 crore allocated to this project for other works during this pandemic. Though the current buildings are indicating the colonial power, it is not time to do something with Rs 30,000 crore to implicate our political power. The government should not go with a freehand as it has to consult with heritage experts. But, I don’t think this government will wait too long,” said Ramesh.
