Team Herald
MARGAO: During an inspection on Saturday, the Colva Civic and Consumer Forum (CCCF) pressed the Water Resources Department (WRD) to investigate long-standing complaints regarding damage to an eco-sensitive zone and six water bodies in the village. The inspection focused on alleged destruction within the eco-sensitive zone, with WRD officials set to submit their findings.
Judith Almeida of CCCF raised concerns about how the drainage system had been filled with sand, leading to the blockage of a natural water body. She questioned the legitimacy of permissions granted for the ongoing project in the area, fearing future waterlogging issues. Almeida emphasized that the blocked water body would prevent water from flowing from Velsao to Varca, affecting nearby villages like Betalbatim.
She further referenced a Supreme Court judgment, stating that the State government must adhere to its guidelines and confirmed her commitment to follow up on the matter. Almeida highlighted that the area was designated as an Eco-Sensitive Zone 1 in the Regional Plan 2020 (RP 2020).
In addition to these concerns, CCCF has petitioned the WRD to inspect six water bodies in the village, which are allegedly being filled up for commercial development. Further inspections are expected soon.