Team Herald
MARGAO: The Benaulim Block Congress has strongly opposed the proposed construction of jetties on the River Sal, citing concerns over the detrimental impact on local
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communities.
A delegation led by Keith Gracias, the Block President, along with Savio D’Silva, South Goa district President and others presented a memorandum to South Goa Member of Parliament Captain Viriato Fernandes on Wednesday, urging him to take the issue to the central government.
This move comes after the Inland Waterways Development Council announced plans to develop jetties on various rivers in Goa, including River Sal. Local communities, especially those residing in the constituencies of Benaulim, Navelim, and Velim, have raised growing concerns about these developments, as they rely on the river for their livelihood, particularly through fishing.
Keith Gracias emphasized that River Sal is a lifeline for traditional fishing communities, with small canoes and larger vessels used daily for fishing. Areas like Cutbona and Mobor serve as key centres for fish unloading. He warned that the introduction of industrial activities, particularly coal transportation, would have a severe impact on the environment and the fishing industry.
“The river is already grappling with pollution, particularly from sewage discharge, and is considered one of the most polluted rivers in Goa. Any further pollution would devastate the local fishing industry,” Gracias stated.
