Illegal restaurants and shops have mushroomed by the roadside near the Shantadurga Devastan in Xell, Siolim and waste water is released in the open nullah here. The water then pilfers into the fields and creates a nuisance. The area has turned into a breeding ground for mosquitoes and farmers are forced to abandon their fields as a result. The inmates of houses in the neighbourhood have to lock themselves indoors with the clouds of mosquitoes hovering all around. All people have to realise that the sanctity of the Devastan has to be maintained by keeping the area clean. Both the panchayat and the Siolim Health Centre should ask the establishments to fall in line and if the violations continue then the authorities should revoke licences given to the illegal structures in the interest of public health. Complaints have already been filed in this connection and the authorities have to act with an iron hand. Development cannot take place at the cost of nature.