Puducherry: The Union Territory Administration has proposed to requisition the services of National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), Nagpur, to go into the environmental aspect of the proposed deep-sea port project at Thengaithittu, and other issues connected thereto.

Depending upon the report of the institute, the Government would take the decision on the next course of action. This step to associate a research institute to study the merits and demerits of the project was taken in keeping with the announcement of the Chief Minister that the Government would seek services of expert body to go into the issue. He made the announcement when there was sustained protest against the port project by residents and farmers of Thengaithittu and members of non-governmental organisations and political parties.

They were contending that the port project would be a serious threat to environment, damage the sub-soil water table and lead to destruction of the whole residential area. The residents and others wanted the port project be abandoned once and for all.

They formed a joint action committee and were holding agitations.

The social activist, Medha Patkar, also visited the village last week and held talks with the local people. She also told a public meeting that the port project was a threat to Puducherry.

The public meeting was held before she wound up her visit to Puducherry to oppose the port plan.

The issue would be included in the Action 2007 of the National Alliance of Organisations for a debate.

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