Team Herald
PANJIM: Residents of Mala, Panjim, have alleged that ‘haphazard’ works executed under the Smart City Mission have obstructed the natural flow of Mala spring.
The water has accumulated and people fear that it will lead to mosquito breeding resulting in outbreak of vector borne diseases.
“Portuguese-era storm water drainage system has been damaged by the contractor who executed the work of laying new sewer lines under Smart City Mission. The spring water used to pass through it. Now, as those are totally choked, there is no way for the water to flow naturally,” alleged Former Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) Councillor Menino da Cruz.
“As of now water, is not contaminated but if the corrective measures are not taken immediately then it will lead to contamination of water. This spring is a lifeline for the people of Mala. We will take the government and others concerned to task if they fail to restore the natural flow of the spring,” he added.
Suresh Vinayak Rao, a Mala resident said, “Religious sentiment is deeply attached to this spring. The authorities concerned should ensure that there is no damage done and that the natural flow of the spring is not disturbed.”
CCP Mayor Rohit Monserrate, said that he will inspect the area and request the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Imagine Panaji Smart City Development Ltd (IPSCDL) Sanjit Rodrigues to look into the matter
“We will carry out an inspection along with engineers and Municipal inspectors and take this matter up with the new CEO of the IPSCDL. We will get it (restoration of natural flow of the spring) done,” Monserrate assured.
