THE GOAN NETWORK
MARGAO
Mazilwaddo area of Benaulim village on Friday witnessed uproar over the construction of a mobile tower in the locality. The residents blamed the contractor for destroying the environment under the guise of plantation and going ahead with the project without the nod of the local populace.
The residents immediately informed officials of the Salcete Mamlatdar as well as the Colva police to initiate action. Panch member David Fernandes said he stands by the people in their opposition to the tower. He said the local residents were misguided by the contractor by saying that a well is being built at the spot before the tower took shape.
He said the Panchayat had issued the stop work notice and had sent a letter to the office of the Collector, but lamented that the tower was erected overnight posing danger to the people. He said even as the local residents were objecting to the tower erected in the ward, another tower has taken shape in the village, demanding to know whether there’s no rule of law applicable for the mobile companies.
Warren Alemao said he has extended support to the residents of Pitalim, Mazilwaddo in the fight against illegal development that destroys the environment and disrespects community’s consent. “Under the guise of plantation, the mobile company has begun installing a 5G mobile tower. This reckless act included landfilling fields, cutting down a 100+ year-old tree, and causing irreparable harm to our natural heritage. We acted immediately, alerting the Mamlatdar and local police to halt this unlawful activity”, he said.
Saying the fight against the mobile tower isn’t over, Warren said “we will ensure this tower is removed and protect our land from such violations. Our environment is our responsibility”let’s defend it together’, he added.
