the goan I network
PANAJI
Upset with the growing illegal slums in the area, the residents of Bhutten Bhat (Merces) have come together and written to the Sarpanch of the Merces Village Panchayat asking him to take cognisance of the situation.
The letter states that a slum has been growing approximately 500 meters from the ongoing construction of the new high court, in the baandh which has been unoccupied for many years.
“These slums pose a great threat as they serve as a breeding ground for diseases, garbage, unsolicited pratices and illegal activities,” reads the letter signed by ten residents, led by Joaquim Esteves. “It is a matter of concern to the residents as we will be immediately affected by the influx of migrants, labourers and scrap dealers.”
The residents also sought an answer as to how the panchayat allowed the slum to come up so far. A copy of the letter has also been sent to the North Goa deputy collector and the Block Development Office (BDO).
