Team Herald
ASSAGAO: Residents identified and managed to stop an alleged illegal hill cutting activity within the sensitive funnel zone near Dabolim Airport on Sunday.
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Despite a prior stop-work notice issued by the Chicalim Panchayat, the excavation reportedly continued unchecked.
The locals contacted the police, leading to a halt in the work. The locals warned they may be forced to take law into their own hands if authorities fail
to act.
Avinash Bhosle, a resident, said, “We have filed many complaints stating that what is going on is illegal. We also informed the panchayat which issued a stop work notice. Despite the notice, excavation is being carried out illegally.”
Bhosle said, “You can understand the importance of a funnel zone. Our country is currently engaged in a war, but here, these people are interested in their own benefits. They are not concerned about the country. We have got information that the flag officer has not given permission for such activities. There is a High Court order stating that construction activity should not be allowed here. Who has given permission for carrying out excavations here?”
Jayesh Phadte, another resident said, “People make hue and cry if any structure is demolished. Why allow these structures to come up in the first place? You can see how close aircraft are flying here. Why allow buildings? Permission was given for cultivation and not for construction. A road has been constructed and I have filed a complaint against it.”
Kiran Faldesai, another resident, said, “Such projects are getting permissions and small projects of Goans are being rejected. There is nobody to keep a watch on this. I request the authorities to take action against these sorts of activities.”
