Amid growing concerns across Salcete about the carrying capacity of villages, residents of Telaulim in the Navelim constituency have submitted a petition opposing a proposed housing project in their area.
The villagers contend that the development—if approved—would disrupt their traditional livelihoods and upset the ecological balance of the village.
In a formal petition to the Telaulim village panchayat, signed by 118 residents, locals have urged authorities to reject the project unless key components such as flats and a swimming pool are removed. They argue that such large-scale construction is incompatible with the rural character of the village and the occupations of its indigenous population.
Zacarias Goes, a local resident and signatory, voiced strong objections to the plan.
“It has come to our notice that a housing project comprising flats and bungalows is coming up in our village. For centuries—even before the Portuguese era—people in Telaulim have depended on animal farming, agriculture, and salt production,” he said.
Goes stressed that these traditional livelihoods are more than economic activities—they are integral to the village’s identity and ecological fabric, especially given its location along the River Sal.
He cautioned that new settlers may not understand or appreciate these practices, particularly animal farming, and may find them inconvenient—potentially leading to future conflict.