GOVERNMENT OF INDIA
DEPARTMENT OF SPACE
LOK SABHA
UNSTARRED QUESTION NO.3068
TO BE ANSWERED ON WEDNESDAY, MARCH 14, 2018
COMPLAINTS BY RESIDENTS
- DR. SHASHI THAROOR:
Will the PRIME MINISTER be pleased to state:
(a) whether the residents near the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) have complained about operations of the Centre which has caused air and water pollution and if so, the details thereof;
(b) whether the operations of VSSC are affecting the life of people, predominantly of the fishermen community, as rocket boosters used in the units are damaging fishing nets and if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether the Government has taken steps to address these issues without compromising the essential functions of the VSSC;
(d) if so, the details thereof; and
(e) if not, the reasons therefor?
ANSWER
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF PERSONNEL, PG &
PENSIONS AND IN THE PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE
(DR. JITENDRA SINGH):
(a) Yes, Madam. The complaints received from the residents near Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) were examined by the
Kerala State Pollution Control Board in 2012 and no adverse remarks were made by the Board. All activities of VSSC are
carried out with all precautions without giving any scope for environmental pollution and the safety mechanisms are
reviewed periodically.
(b) No, Madam. No incidents of rocket boosters damaging fishing nets were reported in the recent past. A mechanism has been
established to compensate the fishermen community for the damages to the fishing nets, if any, on production of the
damaged nets and rocket parts to VSSC officials.
(c) & (d)
Yes, Madam. A mechanism has been established to address and resolve issues raised by the local residents, as and when
required, along with the State Government authorities.
(e) Does not arise.
*****
Relevance
The residents living near the VSSC, Thiruvananthapuram have complained about pollution, particularly contamination of water. According to the residents of Thumba, the operations of the VSSC were affecting their livelihood as well. The PMO responded by saying a mechanism has been established to address the grievances of the people and that all activities of VSSC are carried out with all precautions without giving any scope for environmental pollution.
Source: