PERNEM: The illegal hill cutting activities in Pernem taluka, are reportedly escalating in recent days. This has raised alarms bells among the local community members. Residents fear irreversible damage to the natural landscape and are rallying against what they perceive as a threat to the ecological balance of the scenic village of Mandrem.
Mandrem Deputy Sarpanch Tara Hadfdkar, visibly distressed by the situation, expressed the urgency of the matter in the letter addressed to Mandrem MLA Jit Arolkar.
The letter highlights the rampant illegal hill and tree cutting and urged the legislator to intervene urgently in this matter. She emphasized the need for swift and decisive action to curb the environmental degradation.
In response to the concerns raised by the Mandrem Deputy Sarpanch and local community, MLA
Jit Arolkar assured residents that he would personally investigate the matter and take appropriate action if indeed the reported illegal activities were contributing to road construction. Arolkar stressed the importance of balancing development with environmental preservation, and assured to uphold the community’s interests.
“I am committed to ensuring the sustainable development of Mandrem, but not at the cost of our environment. If it is confirmed that the reported hill cutting is for road construction purposes, I will take immediate action to address the issue and ensure that it aligns with environmental regulations,” Arolkar stated.
