The scenic Sinquerim hill in the Candolim panchayat area is under scrutiny as locals express dismay over widespread tree felling, raising concerns about potential real estate interests encroaching upon the ecologically sensitive zone. Following similar incidents in Baga hill, this environmental issue has spurred villagers and the Calangute Constituency Forum (CCF) into action.
The destruction of a significant number of trees, including those with medicinal properties, has triggered alarm among residents and environmental advocates. Suspecting the involvement of the real estate lobby eyeing the panoramic views from the hill, locals fear irreversible damage to the rich biodiversity in the forested land.
Expressing their commitment to preserving the land for future generations, concerned villagers, along with the CCF, have written to various authorities, urging immediate intervention to halt the ongoing destruction. The letter highlights the importance of the Sinquerim hill’s biodiversity, emphasizing its role as a habitat for diverse plant and animal life over the decades.
Premanand Diukar, President of CCF, emphasized the urgency of protecting the land, citing the area’s dense natural vegetation and biodiversity. Despite their efforts to alert the collector, State biodiversity board, and the local panchayat, the concerned parties are yet to receive a response.
Diukar referred to a Supreme Court order from February 4, 2015, prohibiting the conversion of land in Goa above one hectare in size with a forest canopy density of more than 10 percent. The CCF calls for strict adherence to these regulations to safeguard the ecological integrity of Sinquerim hill.
