Block road to force their demands
MAYEM, MAY 20
A large number of residents from Surla-Bicholim blocked the road on Thursday, after accusing mining companies of failing to meet their demands.
The protest by villagers, under the banner of Surla Manawhit Sanstha (SMS), disrupted mining traffic along the route.
The agitating residents have been frequently asking mining companies to undertake measures to safeguard public health and peaceful existence in the area.
According to villagers, Surla has been devastated by mining pollution and a number of residents have developed various ailments due to mining related activity.
Other demands include the prohibition of mining traffic during school hours, a control on dust pollution and a special cleanliness drive in the village.
“Some government and mining officials have even threatened us with dire consequences if we stop mining traffic,” said Vivek Dhume, who spearheaded the agitation.
Local MLA Pratap Gawas visited the site and expressed support to the agitation.
He assured the villagers that a special meeting would be convened with the chief minister and mining officials to arrive at a permanent solution to their grievances.
It is understood that mining companies have agreed to construct a special road for mining activities from Pale to Navelim in Bicholim taluka at an estimated cost of Rs 26 crore.
Incidentally, no government or mining official visited the site to interact with the protesting villagers.
