CANACONA: Residents of Paryemol in Khola village very vociferously opposed plans to set up a fish meal plant in their area citing its likely adverse effect on environment, community and their very way of life.
The corner meeting held on Sunday evening was largely attended by residents of Khola, Agonda, Barcem and was reportedly backed by Congress MLA Alton D’Costa.
Women and children were also present in large numbers to express their support to the objections to this project. Mahima Velip from Paryemol pointed out that educational institutes, agriculture farms, cashew plantation and even a river flows adjacent to the area where the plant is proposed.
Pointing out that all these aspects of their beautiful lifestyle would permanently be destroyed if the fish meal plant is set up there. “I have never spoken in public before, but this government with its nefarious designs has forced me to do so today,” she said beginning her impassioned speech.
“I appeal to the people of Paryemol and surrounding villages not to fall prey to the threats but to remain united to protect our village for posterity,” said Narayan Velip another villager who is a known supporter of the BJP.
He pointed out how Cuncolim is suffering due to similar fish meal plants in the Industrial Estate there and also referred to the McDowell plant that was finally shut down after polluting the surrounding area.
Sunila Velip from Paryemoll expressed fears that the migrant population will increase in the village besides also an increase in traffic movement, once the factory starts there.
“Our women and children will not be able to more around freely if this factory comes up as all over Goa it is observed that most of the criminal activities are committed by migrants against women and children,” she said.
Some of the speakers alleged that a powerful politician from Margao was backing this project and demanded that it be set up at Monte Dongor instead.
Even as the locals have clearly stated that they are against setting up such a project in their sylvan surroundings, it is now for the government to decide whether to abide by the people’s wishes or railroad their desires.
