MARGAO: The failure of the government to resolve the flooding alongside the Western Bypass across Nuvem constituency, as well as in addressing the grievances of residents who gave up their lands for the Bypass was criticised by locals of Verna.
The issue of severe flooding of low-lying areas and fields during the last monsoon was once again brought up by the affected farmers at the gram sabha of the Verna panchayat. This recurring issue was attributed to the unplanned construction of the Western Bypass cutting through the villages of Nagoa, Verna and Nuvem without facilitating drainage, which led to stagnation and inundation of rainwater. The need for urgent action was reiterated, as the flooding would destroy lush green fields, and cause the loss of livelihoods of thousands of farmers dependent on these fields.
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The members also highlighted the plight of the three families affected by and dispossessed due to the land acquisition for the Western Bypass, who are yet to be rehabilitated. Locals added that this was contrary to the rehabilitation act, as appropriate land is supposed to be identified prior to the commissioning of the project, to protect their rights.
