Team Herald
ASSAGAO: The first Gram Sabha of 2025 in Assagao saw strong opposition to large-scale violations of green cover rules, alongside discussions on pressing development issues. While the annual budget was initially on the agenda, it was decided that a special Gram Sabha would be convened to review it, ensuring it was not rushed through with other matters.
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A senior resident, Alex Rodrigues, raised concerns about the extensive destruction of the forest cover by builders in the area. He warned that rapid deforestation could lead to soil erosion and a drying underground water table, leaving Assagao parched. Rodrigues urged locals to oppose the builders, highlighting the environmental risks of such unrestrained development.
He criticised the Forest Department for approving tree-cutting with inadequate conditions. “When the forest department allows tree-cutting, they demand that three times more trees be planted. But where will these trees be planted? On whose property?” he questioned. Rodrigues also expressed frustration at the lack of accountability, pointing out the passing of responsibility between the Panchayat, the local biodiversity committee, and the State Biodiversity Department.
Rodrigues threatened to take legal action against the Forest Department, accusing it of being ineffective in halting the ongoing deforestation. Former Panchayat member, Einstein Barretto, argued that the Panchayat should take responsibility for ensuring builders comply with the green cover rules, even without external expertise. He insisted that the Panchayat had the power to stop projects if these regulations were violated.
Sarpanch Hanumant Naik discussed ongoing development projects, including a sports ground and a water pipeline, but noted that many of these were delayed due to lack of cooperation from relevant departments. Villagers called for more transparency, requesting that the Sarpanch provide detailed information about public welfare projects before the gram sabha, so they could hold authorities accountable.
The Public Works Department also faced criticism for the unfinished state of Assagao’s main road, with villagers demanding action to address the dust and delays. Sarpanch Naik promised to arrange a meeting with engineers to resolve the issue.
On the topic of swimming pool constructions, Naik explained that although the Panchayat had objections, higher authorities often overruled these decisions. He stressed the need for collective action from villagers to prevent such projects.
