Goan Church Body Opposes SWR Double-Tracking, Cites Supreme Court Ruling and Public Outcry

Chicalim, Goa, September 9, 2025 – The Diocesan Commission for Ecology, Archdiocese of Goa and Daman, issued a statement on Sunday, September 7, firmly opposing the double-tracking of the South Western Railway (SWR) line between Hospet and Vasco da Gama. Led by Convenor Fr. Dr. Bolmax Pereira, the commission cited the Supreme Court’s May 2022 ruling, which set aside the wildlife clearance for the project, and widespread public protests in Goa as key reasons for their stance.

In its statement, the Commission highlighted that the Supreme Court had declared the project potentially destructive to the fragile ecosystem of the Western Ghats, following a damning report by the Central Empowered Committee that labelled the project "inefficient", "unjustified", and "potentially destructive". According to the Commission, the decision underscores the severe environmental costs of double-tracking, which threatens biodiversity, wildlife corridors, and the ecological integrity of the region.

Public opposition to the project has been extensive and sustained. Thousands of Goans, supported by environmental activists and civil society groups, have protested against the project, raising concerns over public health risks from coal dust pollution, threats to cultural and heritage sites, and contentious land acquisitions affecting local communities.

Fr. Dr. Bolmax Pereira stated, “The Supreme Court's decision was a victory for environmental justice and validated the concerns of the people. Continuing this project despite judicial pronouncements and public opposition disregards both the rule of law and the democratic will of the people.”

The Commission urged government authorities to reassess the project and explore alternative development models that prioritise ecological sustainability and the well-being of local populations.

Goan Church Body Opposes SWR Double-Tracking, Cites Supreme Court Ruling and Public Outcry

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