MARGAO: The much discussed issues of western bypass project and pipeline for treated sewage water are yet to be resolved, and another trouble in the form of proposed floating jetty at the beach has come to haunt the villagers of Benaulim.
The traditional fishermen, and the others engaged in tourism related business are in a total upset mood, as the government is on a move to study the feasibility of proposed project of floating jetty on Benaulim Beach. However, they have raised strong objections to the project and claimed that it will destroy their livelihood, if it becomes a reality.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you can help support our journalism by adding OHeraldo as a preferred source.
As informed by the locals a few days back a team of Goa State Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) was noticed at the beach carrying out inspection, and upon inquiry it was found out that they are studying the feasibility of Drishti’s project of a floating jetty on Benaulim Beach.
Francisco Fernandes, a traditional fisherman, said that one of their members Pele Fernandes has already lodged his objection before the concerned authority.
“We are already facing a tough time due to various reasons, and this proposed floating jetty will surely affect our livelihood very badly, and hence it is our request to the government not to go ahead with the project in Benaulim”, he said.
He further questioned the move of the concerned authority by stating how come such types of projects are proposed without taking the stakeholders into confidence.
Locals engaged in the business related to the tourism sector also expressed fear of losing their livelihood, if the project becomes a reality. They want the government to re-think on the project, and warned of agitation.
It is pertinent to note that the villagers of Benaulim are fighting to save their environment from the alleged destruction of western bypass and proposed pipeline to release the treated sewage water into the River Sal. Villagers have even knocked the doors of the judiciary seeking justice. Now, the traditional fishermen and locals engaged in tourism related business are in disturbed mood.
