Erik Solheim on visit to Mumbai. File photo
United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) global chief Erik Solheim has expressed concerns over the loss of lives following the police firing at anti-Sterlite protesters at Thoothukudi in Tamil Nadu.
Speaking to media persons at Cochin International Airport (CIAL) here on Saturday, Mr. Solheim said that “we are extremely sorry for the loss of lives”.
“This shall not happen. Protests shall be without violence and police shall not use strike ammunition,” he said.
Hoping that solutions could be found on the issue, Mr. Solheim said that he had learnt that the authorities have taken steps to close the plant. “We are concerned. Let us see how it develops,” he said.
On whether big-ticket projects are getting help from governments to flout rules, Mr. Solheim said that public consultations should be done before going ahead with such projects.
The UNEP chief, who visited CIAL to understand its green initiatives, said that his organisation will work out plans to officially recognise CIAL as the world’s first fully solar energy-powered airport.
