MANDREM: Mandrem constituency, which falls in Pernem taluka, comprises nine panchayats – Tuem, Parcem, Agarwada-Chopdem, Mandrem, Morjim, Keri, Arambol, Palyem and part of Virnoda. The coastal constituency also boasts of the famous Morjim, Arambol, Ashwem and Keri beaches that draw thousands of tourists annually.
Situated between sand on one side and hills on the other, the constituency faces a major problem of hill cutting, construction and encroachment on the hills and along the coast.
The water treatment plant and power stations providing services to the constituency are over loaded due to increasing commercial as well as residential constructions and so locals, especially close to the beaches, are subjected to constant power fluctuations and water scarcity.
All of Pernem taluka receives 15 MLD of water, when the actual demand is more than 30 MLD. People are forced to stay without water or carry out their daily household activities with limited water, which they store for days and sometimes for weeks. Restoration of wells is needed in the constituency, say locals.
Farmers in the constituency, especially in Paliem, Tuem and Agarwada, face major problems as they are unable to cultivate their fields throughout the year as sea water enters their fields and damages their crop.
Farmers claimed that this happens because the sluice gates are not maintained by the concerned department even after several requests.
Unemployment is another major issue. Youth only get employment opportunities in hotels and resorts only during the tourism season.
Despite being a constituency with some famous beaches, people face hardships due to the pathetic road conditions, especially in the coastal areas, along with parking as people and tourists are forced to park their vehicles on the road.
“Commencement of projects like Tuem Electronic City, district hospital at Tuem are the only hope left for their source of employment, since well-educated youth are also sitting idle at home,” Rupesh Naik, a local said.
“People are still struggling to get sufficient water supply, quality healthcare services, quality roads and Jobs. More and more constructions, especially hotels and villas, are coming up even with limited infrastructure in the constituency, while concrete jungles are increasing and orchard areas are being destroyed on a large scale. While the people suffer for basic necessities, the government is trying to get projects like entertainment village, which will consume more water, power and destroy nature”, said a youth Neha Naik.
Tushar Govekar, another youth said,” Unemployment is the biggest issue in Mandrem constituency. Youngsters who are educated are either sitting at home or working in the hotel industry as waiters and receptionists. Water shortage issue has been plaguing us for over 30 years. Conditions of the health sector are pathetic as people are forced to rush to North Goa District hospital for treatment since the community health centre in Tuem does not even have the provision for deliveries, X-ray, scanning, which forces the people to visit the Mapusa or Bambolim to get treatment.”
