the goan I network
QUEPEM
The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) has filed a police complaint accusing some councillors of the Quepem Municipal Council (QMC) of their involvement in the recent felling of many trees near the Primary Health Center and Quepem Sports Complex along the Quepem-Curchorem road.
AAP has demanded action by the Quepem police, on grounds that the incident is a cognisable offence.
In a letter to the Quepem police inspector, AAP Quepem coordinator Patricia Fernandes has said though a complaint has been filed with the Forest Department, the police needs to investigate as there are reports of theft of the wood/timber which was already cut and the alleged involvement of the councillors.
“It has come to notice that large scale fully grown trees have been cut particularly along the Quepem-Curchorem highway near the Primary Health Center and Quepem Sports Complex,” stated Fernandes.
In the complaint, it is mentioned that the QMC chief officer is the executive officer who executes decisions of the council and added that some PWD officials could also be involved.
Fernandes said when she contacted the forest department in this regard, she was informed that the department had enquired with the PWD about their involvement in the tree cutting and that, the PWD informed the forest department that they have no involvement in the incident.
Stating that the matter is also being taken up before the National Green Tribunal, Fernandes said the police investigation would help make specific prayers before the NGT for awarding damages in favour of the State against those involved in the criminal act.
Copy of the complaint have also been forwarded to the Dy Superintendent of Police and the Dy Conservator of Forests.
