Herald: Is the problem of noise pollution in the Morjim belt so serious that you have to come out on the streets against your own government?
Prabhudessai: Yes, and no action is being taken against noise pollution. We suspect that this is purely because of the political pressure applied to ensure that the government machinery does not take cognizance. We don’t accuse them of being bribed, but feel that this is happening due to political pressure. Due to this the same government machinery which is supposed to keep a check, has failed in its duties. The deputy collector gives permissions and these very permissions have almost 12 conditions laid down. But whether they are being fulfilled or not has to be checked. There are constant complaints filed by locals and NGOs. For weddings they insist that music stops by 10.30 or 11pm. But these beach parties continue till 10 am the next day.
Herald: But your MLA is the chief minister?
Prabhudessai: I know. During the last election, everyone felt that the government had to be changed. I supported BJP as I am the taluka president of the MGP. The people got the party elected and Parsekar became a minister. There were a lot of expectations, but he has not taken much interest in the people’s problems. Also, one of his main persons is helping ‘these people’ get permissions. So we realized that it is pointless to go to him and we decided to come out on the streets. Our demand was simple – come and check. But nobody would come. In fact one of our committee persons was even threatened.
Herald: Are the government authorities not doing their job?
Prabhudessai: When the complaints are filed the deputy collector has to look into them before new permissions are given. But nothing like this has happened and despite complaints, the licences are being given, especially to four or five establishments which are regular lawbreakers.
In fact, we had come out on the roads after an advertisement in the form of a hoarding announced a party from 3 pm till 10 am next morning. How can permission be given like this? Especially as Morjim and Ashvem are turtle nesting sites. There is a rule that they cannot use lights and play music there, after 8 pm. This year they have violated the rules and given permission till 10 pm. Also how can the government give permission to a restaurant which has been declared an illegal structure – to hold parties?
