MAPUSA: The retaining wall along the approach road leading to the Xavier Retreat House at Baga collapsed on account of another landslide that occurred due to continuous downpour.
It may be recalled that a landslide had occurred on August 11 wherein the approach road leading to the Baga Retreat House was blocked. The Jesuits were forced to undergo hardship to get essential items. The Jesuits later shifted to a villa down the hill.
Fr Cedric Fernandes said, “The PWD and fire station officials visited the site on Monday morning and informed us that they cannot take up the repair work until the rains stop. We are in constant contact with fire station officials”.
“After the landslide that occurred last week, the Jesuits shifted and are residing in the villa down the hill. All are belongings are inside the retreat house and whenever we require anything, we have to go all around to get them via a small pathway. We are facing a tough time due to these constant landslides,” Fr Fernandes complained.
Meanwhile, Calangute MLA Michael Lobo informed that he has already written to Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant in this regard and the work will start by September-end.
“I have already written to the Chief Minister that the landslides have resulted in the collapse of the retaining wall and have damaged the road leading to retreat house. I have requested for taking up the construction of protection wall and repair of the road under disaster management on top priority,” Lobo informed.
“Due to constant landslides, the entire hill has weakened. Last week, the mud was cleared twice. Work of the retaining wall will be taken up with proper terracing where in the lower part will be constructed using concrete and terracing will be done using stones. By September-end, the repair work should commence”, Lobo added.
