On the occasion of Independence Day, Uzwaad – The Rays of Hope, a Goa-based NGO, organised a powerful street play at Panjim Market to raise awareness about the ongoing Mhadei River diversion issue. The play attracted a large audience, including locals, tourists, and vendors, drawing attention to the urgent need to protect the river, which is considered Goa’s lifeline. The performance highlighted the environmental and social consequences of the diversion, focusing on threats to Goa’s drinking water supply, the fragile ecosystem of the Western Ghats, and the survival of wildlife in nearby sanctuaries. Using storytelling, visuals, and live interaction, the play emphasized how the river’s alteration could have lasting impacts on both human and ecological systems in the state.
Uzwaad’s initiative aimed to educate the public and inspire civic action. Volunteers distributed informative material and engaged with the audience, urging them to stay informed and support the movement to protect the Mhadei. The NGO continues to lead grassroots efforts to preserve Goa’s natural heritage and advocate for sustainable environmental policies.