A crusher located at Survey No. 8/1 in Guddemol, Sanvordem, has sparked public outrage following allegations of serious violations of forest and environmental regulations. Locals claim that the crusher is illegally constructed over a natural nallah (water stream) and accuse the owner of unauthorized trenching to divert its flow, putting the entire area at risk—particularly during the ongoing monsoon season.
Residents reported that the entire plant has gone underwater due to monsoon flooding, raising major safety concerns for both workers and nearby commuters. Shockingly, despite these dangers, the village panchayat is said to have provisionally renewed the crusher’s license.
The controversy intensified on Sunday when locals halted the trenching activity and called in the police and forest department officials, including the Range Forest Officer (RFO). However, by the time authorities arrived, several trees had already been illegally cut down as part of the trenching operation.
Villagers allege that the tree cutting was done without the necessary permissions, directly violating forest and environmental protection laws. “This is a clear encroachment on nature and a risk to public safety. The crusher sits right on a water body, and now there’s a deep trench dangerously close to the road,” said a local resident.
Frustrated with government inaction, villagers confronted Sanvordem Sarpanch Chinmayi Naik, demanding accountability for the license renewal. The Sarpanch reportedly told the crowd she was unaware of how the provisional approval was granted or who signed off on it.
Residents have accused various departments—including the Panchayat, Forest, and Town and Country Planning (TCP)—of passing the buck and failing to take responsibility for the repeated violations. With the rainy season intensifying, locals warn that the trench could pose a grave danger to vehicles and passersby.
Calling for urgent intervention from higher authorities, the villagers are demanding a full-scale investigation, cancellation of the crusher’s license, and strict action against those involved in the alleged violations.