This is in reference to the editorial “A Time to Reboot for the sake of Goa” (June 25).
Why mature planning is much needed to transform this once Portuguese colony duly integrated to this nation to reach excellence in coming years and the road ahead is not free from bumps and hurdles. Without a proper understanding of Goa’s ecology, nothing substantial can be achieved. Land, forests and rivers constitute the natural resources, these have to be harnessed properly to make gains. The issue is not investment in billions but to protect Nature and use natural resources for the upgradation of the state and passing benefits to the people.
Forests cover is about from conservative 20% to 33 in recent times. Most are located in the Eastern region and as per international recognition this part of the Western Ghats is truly the Biodiversity Hotspot with rich flora and fauna. One finds in Goa moist mixed deciduous forest, sub-tropical hill forest, semi-evergreen and evergreen forests. The six wild life sanctuaries and one national park in areas Sanguem, Canacona, Ponda, Tiswadi are testimony to wild life presence and needs to be left undisturbed. Proper forest conservation and advanced planning must be in the forefront of peoples’ issues so also drinking water needs and tree plantation.
Let us understand that forests capture rainfall and help to clean our water supply. Water treatment plants must be given attention otherwise they will fall prey to waste hazards from mindless industrialisation. Needless to mention the contribution of noted environmentalist Claude Alvares who exposed how mining scam destroyed forestry. Forest cover needs wide attention by planners and authorities to save wild life, protect and provide water supply and the free flow of rivers like Mandovi and Zuari and tributaries to augment agricultural and horticultural needs. All industrial activities including mining must be carried on without destruction of natural treasure and human habitation. The trinity of land, forest and rivers are the keys of Goa’s growth story and how effectively seen and handled could the outcome be promising.
The Forest Minister must tread the path of progress and prosperity taking into confidence the experts and environmentalists. His call for eco-tourism inside ecologically sensitive zones through an amendment recently may enthuse tourism but will affect natural resources and local livelihood. Nothing should be done which goes against the overall interests of the state.
Another social factor like growth of fundamentalism if not tamed will in the long run disgrace this liberal state. Goa and Goenkar have cultivated all that is decent, all that can be fun and this liberal treasure must be sustained to promote Goa’s Brand Story. My humble advice, let us do away with unfettered growth and scandals and put in place a social and economic system that works for nature and people connect.
Dignity, freedom and peace can bring incalculable dividends better than a greed oriented development.
