QUEPEM: Residents of Xeldem have voiced their opposition to the alleged illegal hill cutting at Taki Davodxet in Curchorem constituency.
According to sources, the said alleged illegality came to light on Sunday.
Guru Gawas, a local complained to the police about the alleged illegal hill cutting activity and later along with the local residents contacted the media.
Addressing media persons, he informed that the alleged illegal hill cutting is underway without permissions from the local authority, and claimed that the work started on a Sunday when all government offices are closed.
He said, “These days migrants are involved in such illegalities and as a resident of the area it is my duty to raise such issues which will cause harm to our environment as this could lead to landslides in future.”
Another resident Ali Sheikh, who is the general secretary of South Goa District Congress said, “This illegal activity is dangerous as it will lead to landslides and the water tank located atop the hill will be affected during monsoon if hill cutting continues. The Xeldem Panchayat should know what’s going on.”
Sarpanch Caitan Lima said, “We have received no intimation from the local panch or owner about this activity. The owner has not taken any permission for using the earthmoving machinery in this area. I don’t know whether they have taken any permission from Town and Country Planning (TCP) office at Quepem.”
Panchayat secretary Ravindra Vaddikar said, “We don’t know about any such activity. Hill cutting permission should be taken from Quepem Deputy Collector’s office.”
