Team Herald
CANACONA: Taking cognizance of the news report appeared on Herald “Sandbar on Galgibaga River partially washed away due to swelling of sea”, the Mamlatdar of Canacona on Friday deputed the talathi to inspect the extent of the damage to the natural barrier at Galgibaga River, which obstructs the sea water from directly entering the river.
Herald in its Friday edition, had pointed out that the sand barrier just before the mouth of Galgibaga River, which is about 200 metres, has eroded at two places. This occurred last Friday, due to the swelling of the sea water due to cyclonic winds.
“This barrier, which is as old as the Galgibaga River has been in distress due the large filling of the river, in the vicinity of this barrier, which has given rise to another sandbar,” locals alleged.
“This nascent sandbar is blocking the normal flow of the flooded as well as tidal water,” said Manoj Prabhugaonkar, a local resident.
“The eroded sandbar, which is about three metres in height is seen dangerously breached at two places and the sea water has entered directly into the Galgibaga River, “added a loca, while pointing out that residents on either side of the river, have been facing hardships over the last week.
“The portion that is washed away is quite big and the Meteorological Department has already announced the possibility of another severe cyclone in next two days. The authorities have to act fast to arrest the washing of the entire sandbar,” added Pradeep Mokhardakar.
Mamlatdar of Canacona Raghuraj Faldesai when contacted said that upon reading the news on Herald, he sent a team led by the talathi from his office to conduct an inspection on the extent of damage to the sandbar.
“I have submitted the observations in writing to the Deputy Collector for information and necessary action,” Faldesai said.
“This sandbar is important for this river as it blocks the sea water from directly entering into the Galgibaga River. The washed out portion remains a threat to the river and its marine life together with the coconut grooves and houses on either side,” Faldesai added.
