Adani Group in Vadhavan Port Controversy
• Villagers and Activists Stand Against Fraudster Adani’s Plan
• Villagers Oppose Vadhavan Port Over Safety Concerns for Tarapur Nuclear Plant
Unmesh Gujarathi
Sprouts News Exclusive
In Palghar district, Maharashtra, the proposed Vadhavan Port project has ignited significant opposition from local villagers, who express concerns over its potential impact on the nearby Tarapur Atomic Power Station (TAPS). During a public hearing on January 19, 2024, thousands from 30 villages gathered to voice objections, particularly regarding the port’s compliance with Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) guidelines. Villagers argue that the port’s proximity—approximately 12 kilometers from TAPS—could pose risks to the nuclear facility’s safety. They also criticized the hearing’s location, 30 kilometers away from the project site, which they believe limited effective participation.
Local residents remain steadfast in their opposition, citing concerns over environmental degradation and threats to their traditional way of life. The situation underscores the ongoing tension between developmental initiatives and environmental as well as community interests in the region.
• Controversy Over Vadhavan Port and Adani’s Involvement
The Vadhavan Port project has also drawn controversy due to its connection with the Adani Group, which is expected to play a key role in its development and operation. Critics argue that the project aligns with Adani’s broader strategy of privatizing key infrastructure assets, often at the cost of local communities and the environment. Several reports suggest that the port’s approval process has lacked transparency, with environmental and social concerns sidelined in favor of corporate interests. Activists claim that the project will primarily benefit large private players while displacing local fishing communities and disturbing the fragile coastal ecosystem.
Also read: Shocking Navi Mumbai Land Scam: ₹21 Lakh Fraud Exposed.
• Sprouts Stands with Villagers, Opposes Adani’s Port Policies
Sprouts Newspaper firmly stands with the villagers in their fight against the Vadhavan Port project. We recognize the serious environmental and safety threats posed by this development and strongly oppose Adani Group’s policies that prioritize profit over people. Sprouts is committed to creating awareness about the port’s potential drawbacks and will continue to highlight the voices of the affected communities. Through fearless journalism, we will expose any corporate or governmental actions that compromise the well-being of local residents. The Sprouts team remains dedicated to protecting the interests of the people and opposing any exploitative policies that threaten their land, livelihood, and future.
• Unmesh Wagh Denies Allegations
Speaking to Sprouts News, Unmesh Sharad Wagh, IRS, Chairman of JNPT and MD of VPPL, denied all the allegations and assured that the Vadhvan Port would not pose any harm to the local population. He emphasized that, on the contrary, the port would contribute significantly to job creation and economic development in the area.