MARGAO
The gram sabha of the village panchayat of Ambelim on Sunday gave its approval for the budget estimates for the financial year 2025-26 after discussions on the development proposals.
At the meeting chaired by Sarpanch Alexander D’Silva, the meeting discussed a host of issues, including garbage collection and disposal, besides development proposals, including construction of futsal ground near the panchayat ghar. Velim MLA Cruz Silva also attended the meeting.
The sarpanch later told the media that the issue of stray cattle and dogs figured at the meeting during discussions on the budget estimates.
On the question of garbage collection and disposal, the sarpanch explained that the panchayat used to receive government grants to the tune of Rs 1.5 lakh on the garbage front. He, however, said no grants have been received by the panchayat in the last four years, leaving the panchayat in a tight spot on funds to handle garbage. “The Ambelim village panchayat is a weaker panchayat and hence is facing financial difficulties in handling garbage. We are working out other options how to go about the job,” he added.
Saying that Ambelim is playing host to Goa’s biggest wetland, the sarpanch said the panchayat has urged the Water Resources Department to build a retaining wall and to desilt the lake for the purpose of irrigation. “The water can be even used for drinking purpose after treatment,” he added.
