MARGAO: A group of farmers and villagers in Curtorim have raised objections, stating that they were neither consulted nor taken into confidence regarding the declaration of Curtorim as a Biodiversity Heritage Site.
In response, they have submitted a memorandum to the Curtorim village panchayat, expressing their intent to participate in discussions to oppose the move.
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While the Goa State Biodiversity Board (GSBB) contends that the ongoing process in Curtorim is one of the most extensively consulted Biodiversity Heritage Site notifications in the state, a group of farmers on Thursday told O Heraldo that the community was in a confused state and sought clarification on the matter. Milagres Menezes, former Chairman of Sirjem Add Angddio Tollem Tenant Association, representing nearly 350 farmers, said he was unaware of anything related to the Curtorim Biodiversity Heritage Site until he assumed his post. He emphasised that planning to declare Curtorim a biodiversity heritage site without consulting the farming community is unfair.
At the upcoming gram sabha scheduled for December 10, Menezes stated that farmers would oppose the move. Antonio Dias, another farmer from Curtorim, pointed out that their tenant association had consistently maintained and protected the lakes and fields.
He expressed disappointment that their suggestions were not considered, and the panchayat did not inform them about the issue, leaving farmers in the dark regarding the buffer zone.
Simon Barretto, Attorney at Curtorim Communidade, raised concerns about the lack of consultation with farmers and other stakeholders. He questioned why their input was not sought, emphasising that they have diligently protected the lakes and fields.
