MAPUSA
Aldona MLA Carlos Ferreira along with concerned citizens has decided to work on the task of clearing the poisonous weeds that has invaded River Tar in Mapusa and beyond.
“There is an urgent need to clear the water hyacinth that is choking the Tar River which will lead to ecological disaster. Along with some experts we have decided to work on short, medium and long term plan to clear the weeds and allow the marine creatures in the river to breathe,” Ferreira said.
The Aldona MLA along with officials of captain of ports, water resource department and concerned citizens conducted an inspection of the river to get first-hand information of the infestation of the weeds.
“It is of utmost importance for us to help save our rivers and water bodies. They are an integral part of our livelihoods as we draw water for agricultural purposes and aquatic life as food,” Ferreira said.
He said there was over 200 ton of water hyacinth currently in the Tar River which had to be cleared at the earliest.
“We need to be concerned about our future generations. If we don’t act now it will be too late. I request everyone to please stop polluting these water bodies as it will only result in destruction of ecology and environment,” he said.
He further said that the reason for the growth of water hyacinth was due to decrease in salinity in the river.
“Citizens, environmental experts and others have come forward to help and along with the concerned authorities we intend to tackle this, hands on. We will take the help of the Navy. They are willing to come on board and help us. We are taking up this work on top priority to beat the code of conduct for the panchayat elections and the approaching monsoon,” he said.
