Team Herald
MARGAO: The destruction of sand dunes and vegetation and in a private property at the Mobor-Cavelossim beach has upset villagers who demanded that the panchayat initiate strict action against those responsible for desecration of the environment.
Shocked over the destruction caused to the environment, the villagers knocked at the door of the panchayat demanding action against the high and mighty violators and stated that the civic body use its good offices to restore the land to its original status claiming that the area was an eco sensitive zone and was violating CRZ rules.
In response to strong objections from the villagers, the Village Panchayat of Cavelossim issued a stop work notice to the concerned parties.
Villagers were left in shock upon discovering that several sand dunes had been destroyed by the concerned parties, which included a well-known sports personality. They questioned the authorities on how such significant destruction could occur in violation of CRZ norms.
Speaking to reporters at the site, villagers alleged that the area has been flattened due to the destruction of sand dunes.
"A massive destruction of vegetation has also been observed to clear space for road construction. All these activities are being carried out without any legal permission," the villagers stated.
They also alleged that the CRZ authorities and the government are colluding with the concerned parties to facilitate the environmental destruction in the area.
"It is shocking to witness such extensive damage, especially when the CRZ authorities do not permit construction that violates their norms if any local attempts to do so. Why are the CRZ authorities silent on the destruction occurring here?" the villagers questioned.
In response to the objections and complaints received, the Village Panchayat of Cavelossim has issued a stop work notice to the concerned parties.
"The Panchayat is hereby directed to immediately halt the progress of fencing and road development and submit all legal documents pertaining to permission for these activities," the notice stated.
Dixon Vas, Sarpanch of the Village Panchayat Cavelossim, emphasized that “no work will be permitted without the proper permissions from the Panchayat and other authorities.