25 Apr 2024  |   07:16am IST

Outcry in Siridao: Locals oppose wall, concretisation of ‘Sunset Point’

The parking lot with a panoramic view of the Siridao coastline is frequented by tourists and locals alike; villagers also oppose proposed gate and toilet adjoining the road; decry encroachment by private party

Team Herald

PANJIM: Siridao villagers gathered near the ‘Sunset Point’ and demanded the demolition of a wall and encroachments on the public parking area. They also opposed the proposed gate, which leads to a private residence, which would block access to the scenic spot. They also objected to the proposal of a toilet adjoining the road and the concretisation of the Sunset Point as part of a Tourism Department project.

The picturesque ‘Sunset Point’ in Siridao, bordering Sea Shell restaurant and overlooking the beach from a height of around 20 metres , has been a popular spot for locals and tourists to park their cars and enjoy picnics. However, recent developments, including the erection of a wall on the seaward side to provide privacy to a nearby residence, and the cutting of several coconut trees, have sparked outrage among villagers. A low wall has also been 

erected on the northern side bordering the road, preventing cars from entering the area.

On Wednesday, many Siridao villagers gathered at the spot.  Seby Gracias, a local, voiced the community’s concerns, stating, “The private party has encroached upon half of the parking area and now seeks to claim more public land. We were not consulted regarding the concretisation plans for the parking area. Their intention to install gates and restrict access is unacceptable. If the parking area is concretised, it will shrink, forcing cars onto the narrow road and potentially leading to accidents.”

“Siridao villagers should know why this wall has been built. Why are they building a toilet near the road? This land belongs to the Tourism Department. We called the Tourism Minister but his phone was busy. We want the wall to be demolished. Who has given them permission to build the wall? Such a beautiful place will be destroyed, if encroached,” said another villager, Anacleto Fernandes.

Thereafter the villagers went to the Siridao Panchayat to ask the panchayat members whether the permissions were granted by them. 

Anton Marie Figueiredo said, “We elected the panchayat members to monitor such projects. They are putting walls to close everything. Our villagers don’t understand this. Panchayat members are feigning ignorance about the project.”