Team Herald
MARGAO: On Monday, the citizens of Benaulim strongly condemned illegal filling of low-lying areas and water bodies near Umya Marcado shopping mall, located along the Western Bypass, demanding immediate intervention from the authorities.
Local residents expressed their frustration, calling on their MLA, Venzy Viegas, to take swift action.
A large machine was spotted dumping mud in a traditional water body along the Western Bypass on Monday, sparking public outrage. Santan Pereira, a concerned local resident, immediately intervened and halted the work.
“We have been raising concerns about the filling of water bodies and the destruction of agricultural land for the construction of the Western Bypass. Workers involved in constructing the culvert have illegally dumped mud into this traditional water body, which is completely unacceptable,” said Pereira.
He further criticized the ongoing destruction and the inaction of the authorities. In response, Pereira contacted the Biodiversity Committee of the local panchayat, urging them to look into the matter.
Pereira also expressed concerns over the culvert's construction, claiming that it is being done
improperly.
Additionally, Pereira turned his attention to the ongoing pollution of the River Sal, accusing the government of negligence. He pointed out that despite six years passing since the High Court issued directives, the government has yet to implement the river restoration plan proposed by a Pune-based
consultancy firm.