TEAM HERALD
MARGAO: The Benaulim Village Panchayat on Saturday slapped a fine of Rs 500 on a land owner for dumping debris and waste in an open place near a place of worship.
The Panchayat action came following an uproar by local residents after the land owner dumped debris near the Holy Cross.
Benaulim Sarpanch Remy Fernandes and personnel of the Colva police rushed to the site as the local residents demanded immediate clearing away of the debris and action against the owner.
A local resident Nemeza Fernandes said the dumping of debris near the Holy Cross has not only posed nuisance but a health hazard to the locals. ‘Many people visit the Holy Cross to offer prayers to St Anthony. We also hold function near the Holy Cross,” he said.
The owner Francis Gomes, however, said that he had dumped the debris at the site which is his own property. “The land in question belongs to me and not to anyone,” he added.
The village panchayat did not agree to this witht he Sarpanch Remy Fernandes saying that the Panchayat has imposed a fine of Rs 500 on the property owner for the act. “The property may belong to anyone, but that does not grant any right on anyone to dispose off debris,” the Sarpanch added.
