The Curchorem sewerage project is facing major setbacks as rising water levels in a Zuari river branch have caused flooding in nearby plantations and triggered serious environmental and safety concerns for residents.
According to local sources, excavated soil from the sewerage work has entered the river branch and is now being washed away by the current, contributing to siltation and further destabilizing the riverbanks. The situation has raised alarms among villagers, especially those living in low-lying areas near the project site.
“The water is already encroaching into our plantations,” said a local resident. “If this continues, it won’t be long before it threatens our homes.”
Environmental Risk and Infrastructure Mismanagement
The mismanagement of the excavated material, combined with inadequate planning to contain flooding, has led to fears of long-term ecological damage and potential property loss. There are growing concerns that continued erosion could compromise nearby structures, particularly with the monsoon season fast approaching.
Experts warn that flooding and soil erosion not only endanger crops and homes but could also disrupt the sewerage infrastructure being laid, leading to costly repairs and delays.
Calls for Immediate Action
Residents are demanding urgent intervention by the concerned authorities to:
Reinforce riverbanks with protective barriers
Remove excess soil from the river
Implement flood control measures around the project site
The situation highlights a broader issue of poor execution and monitoring of critical public infrastructure projects, especially those undertaken near sensitive ecological zones.