Calangute MLA, along with local panchayat officials, has raised concerns over an unauthorized hill cutting and tree-felling incident in Arpora. The incident, which occurred in the area known as Ximer, involved clearing a considerable area of thick vegetation on a steep slope and constructing a road without proper permissions.
Local panchayat members reported that the unauthorized activity had been ongoing for approximately ten days but remained unnoticed due to the site’s distance from the main road, around 200 meters away. The violation was brought to light when locals observed the movement of JCBs in the area and promptly informed their local ward member.
Calangute MLA Michael Lobo, Arpora Sarpanch Roshan Redkar, and panchayat members visited the site on Saturday to assess the situation, accompanied by forest officials. Lobo expressed his concern over the destruction of over 500 trees, the unauthorized hill cutting, and the construction of a road. He has pledged to write to the TCP Minister and the Chief Conservator of Forest, urging immediate action against those involved in this illegal activity.
The incident highlights the need for stricter monitoring and enforcement of environmental regulations to protect Goa’s natural resources.
