MAPUSA: The Calangute Constituency Forum on Monday raised concern over the destruction of biodiversity at Gauravaddo, Calangute in plots bearing Survey No 88/1, 88/2 and 88/3.
The Forum in a complaint to Collector North, Directorate of Panchayats, Deputy Collector Bardez, Conservator of Forest and Calangute Police Station raised concern over the destruction of biodiversity in the plots situated at Gauravaddo and demanded action against the alleged culprit.
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The Forum stated that acting on the complaint filed at local panchayat, Sarpanch and Secretary conducted site inspection along with the official of Biodiversity Board.
During the site inspection it was revealed that cutting is done to up to two metres in height towards the upper side of the plot and entire biodiversity of the area has been destroyed using JCB machinery, thus disturbing the environment of that area.
However, after inspection and issuing the stop notice, the concerned person continued to develop the plots. The Forum claimed that the development work is on in full swing and the competent authorities have not acted upon the direction of Calangute Village Panchayat.
The Calangute Constituency Forum stated that through the land records it is understood that the owner is developing the plots, which is a major threat to the biodiversity and its natural cover in future.
The Forum further requested the concerned authorities to initiate immediate action against the developer and stop the further destruction of the biodiversity and natural cover of the beautiful hill of Calangute village, which works as a catalyst during monsoon to increase the ground water level and release oxygen to entire village.
