PERNEM: Despite substantial investments from the government for beautification, the Khajan Gundo area, which is also a tourist destination, has become a hotspot for vandalism.
Reports indicate that intoxicated youths have been breaking liquor bottles and leaving behind a dangerous glass pieces at the spot. This has not only rendered the place unsafe for tourists, but is also posing risk to traditional fishermen who navigate the nearby Chapora river for their livelihood.
As per sources, instances of late-night parties have become a common phenomenon. Recently, a birthday celebration was held at the site, where numerous youth littered the area with broken glass bottles and food waste.
Sunita Bugde Desai, a panch member of Parsem, demanded for increased police patrolling in the area. She said that measures must be taken to deter such acts of vandalism. Proactive patrols to safeguard public assets and holding perpetrators accountable is the need of the hour, she said.
The project was initiated by then Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar to enhance tourism and also to revitalize agricultural practices and showcase traditional farming methods. However, the ongoing vandalism threatens to undermine these efforts and hinder progress in the region.
