MARGAO: Local residents have complained about the unresolved issue of silt left uncollected from the banks of River Sal in the Assolna-Ambelim stretch, coupled with the expanding mangroves obstructing the river.
In response, Velim MLA Cruz Silva, accompanied officials from the Captain of Ports (CoP) and Forest Department, in conducting an inspection of this River Sal stretch to evaluate the severity of mangrove encroachment, which hinders the navigation channel used by local fishermen.
The inspection found that mangroves have extended into the river’s navigation channel. Additionally, the silt deposited on the riverbanks by the contractor as part of a pre-monsoon river rejuvenation project remains unaddressed. The MLA urged the forest officials to consider trimming mangrove branches and relocating the trees without causing damage. He clarified that the objective is not to cut down the mangroves but to trim them, to ensure the navigation channel is unobstructed for local fishermen.
Silva suggested that the Forest Department replant the mangroves in a different location where their presence is needed. Regarding silt removal, he recalled raising the issue in the Assembly, insisting that the contractor should not receive payment until the silt along the river banks is cleared. Noting that the silt removal has commenced, Silva called for expediting efforts to ensure timely disposal, asserting that the
purpose of river desilting would be defeated if the silt remains uncleared.
