MAPUSA
In a bid to halt the wanton tree cutting in Siolim, a group of locals led by Goa Green Brigades' Avertino Miranda has intensified their efforts by holding a one-hour candlelit vigil everyday in the village.
In a startling revelation, Miranda claimed that the road widening project in the area primarily serves the interests of the casino and builder lobby rather than public welfare.
The green crusader’s allegations come amid mounting concerns over the irreversible environmental damage caused by the indiscriminate felling of trees and unauthorised road expansion.
He reiterated that the process was on to file a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the High Court to challenge these actions, citing violations of legal protocols.
“We have credible information suggesting the establishment of a casino on the Siolim riverfront, accompanied by extensive building projects in the village," Miranda asserted, accusing politicians and departments concerned of neglecting public input in their pursuit of destructive development.
According to Miranda, the ongoing candlelight vigils aim to mobilise resistance against further tree cutting.
He claimed that over 30 trees have already been felled and there were plans to cut down an additional 120 trees along the designated road stretch.
The Goa Green Brigade, in collaboration with local residents, initiated the candlelight vigil near the SFX school in Siolim-Marna last Thursday.
The vigil, now in its fifth consecutive day, has garnered increasing support, prompting Miranda to express optimism about the growing momentum of the protest.
“People are awakening to the urgency of the situation. To safeguard Goa's natural heritage, we must unite in peaceful demonstrations like these,” Miranda remarked, highlighting the potential for other villages to join the cause.
As the battle to preserve Siolim's trees intensifies, Miranda remains resolute in his determination to challenge what he perceives as unethical development practices through legal means.
