MARGAO: Farmers from Navelim, who recently began cultivating barren fields near Saipem Lake, are gearing up for cultivation again this season. They intend to double the area, aiming for two lakh square meters. This work will commence on Thursday at 10 am.
However, they are also requesting the immediate removal of construction debris near the site and for immediate action to be taken to stop the flow of sewage water into Saipem Lake.
“Yesterday, there was a Saipem Farmers Club meeting. The farmers have decided to block the stormwater drain as a last recourse. They will write to the police about the action planned. The flow of sewage is continuous. The Sewage Treatment Plant was recently built to treat the sewage upon the last inspection,” said Antonio Alvares, a key figure in the farmer group and also the petitioner in the High Court, which issued directions to stop the discharge of sewage into storm water drains.
Alvares expressed disappointment over the condition of the stormwater drain despite promises made by the government and steps initiated to divert wastewater away from the lake and clean the drain.
On a different note, regarding the cultivation plan, Alvares explained that Fr George Quadros, of the Don Bosco Agriculture Unit, had met the farmers and outlined what they need to do this season.
It may be recalled that Fr Quadros had assisted the farmers with their launch initiative as well.
Alvares added that this year, they have more support. He mentioned that students will also be involved in the farming exercise.
They also plan to fence the entire area in coordination with the government department concerned via agriculture schemes.
The total expenditure will be around Rs four lakh.
