TEAM HERALD
CANACONA: Opposition is building up against possible plans to develop the eco-sensitive ‘Konko’ island off Palolem Beach and a meeting has been convened on Sunday to discuss the issue.
Locals have been vocal in expressing their fears that any development on the Konko island could spell doom for the residents of Palolem and many have demanded that the State government should take over the island in the interest of the locals.
The meeting has been convened following speculations that tree-cutting activities and the construction of a road are being undertaken on Konko island.
“Just as Goans believe that St Francis Xavier protects Goa, we believe that Konko island protects residents of Palolem from nature’s fury. The island has greatly benefited local fishermen as well since ages,” said former deputy chairperson of Canacona Municipal Council (CMC) Dayanand Pagui.
Locals have alleged that workers have been engaged to chopping down trees, while adding that land is being levelled as part of commercial activities on the ecologically sensitive Konko island.
“The government should intervene in the matter and should take over the island in the interest of locals of Palolem,” said a resident.
