Making a strong case for the Jaitapur nuclear power plant, which is coming up in the Konkan region of Maharashtra, Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar said that the plant would be environment-friendly , as opposed to coal-based power, which will destroy orchards in the region.

Pawar was speaking at the Global Konkan Festival, an annual event that provides a platform for Konkan-based companies to market their produce.

Pawar said that the local economy was based on income from horticulture. The pollutants from many proposed coal-based power plants in the region will affect orchards. For the proper development of the region, nuclear power and power projects based on renewable sources are the need of the hour, he said.

At least 12 power projects — fuelled by imported coal — have been planned in the region. These are cumulatively expected to generate over 15,000 MW. The projects have, however, faced opposition due to land acquisition and pollution concerns.

Pawar said in the last few years three lakh hectares fruit trees have been planted. The region has made Maharashtra a top producer of horticulture products in the country.

rahul.wadke@thehindu.co.in

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