Hunger Strike Gains Momentum Against Maharashtra's Vadavan Mega Port Project

The hunger strike against the Vadavan mega port in Palghar district continued into its second day, with protestors voicing concerns over environmental damage and threats to local livelihoods. The project involves reclaiming 5,000 acres of land, jeopardizing biodiversity, fishermen, farmers, and residents. Prominent leaders joined the protest.

A hunger strike against the proposed Vadavan mega port in Maharashtra's Palghar district entered its second day on Thursday.

The Anti-Vadavan Port Struggle Committee expressed concerns that the project's construction, which involves reclaiming 5,000 acres of land, would disrupt the region's biodiversity. This could result in severe losses for fishermen, farmers, and residents.

"Vadavan region, known as Asia's primary fish seed production hub, faces irreversible damage if the port project proceeds. This move threatens the livelihoods of lakhs of fishermen and jeopardizes traditional businesses, agricultural activities, and small-scale industries dependent on the area's natural resources," said Narayan Patil, president of the Anti-Vadavan Port Sangharsh Samiti.

Since Wednesday, the strike has been attended by Maharashtra Congress leaders including state unit chief Nana Patole and Maharashtra Fishermen Action Committee president Ramkrishna Tandel.