the goan I network
MARGAO
The Cavelossim Villagers Forum once again cried foul over the failure of the various authorities, including the CRZ, Goa State Pollution Control Board, Fisheries to rein in on the illegal fishing activities in the village on the banks of River Sal.
Forum members led by president Adv Iris Passainha on Thursday briefing the media on the bank of River Sal to highlight the rampant activities in the area without due permission of the various authorities. We have two clear instances of how fishing activities are being undertaken illegally and how structures have come up in NDZ area close to River Sal, encroachment in the river and constructions without CRZ permissions,” Adv
Iris said.
While the Fisheries Director had on August 3 last directed the parties to the use of Cutbona jetty across the river for unloading of fish, the CVF has lamented that fishing vessels were found anchored on the Cavelossim side of River Sal. “We have suspicion that fishing activities continue at Cavelossim. Otherwise, the Fisheries Director should depute an official to check the illegalities,” Iris said.
That’s not all. The CVF has lamented that the authorities have not acted on its complaint on illegal land filling and construction in the NDZ in violation of the rules. “This area is not a jetty, dock or a yard. But, there are around 400 migrants staying in the area. They have no sanitation amenities and the sewage find its way in the river,” he said, adding that garbage and waste generated in the area of the illegal activities is burnt in flagrant violation of rules.
“Several complaints were lodged by the CVA, but there’s no action forthcoming to prevent the illegal business activities and environmental pollution posing a serious threat to the whole village due to uncontrolled illegalities, environmental pollution, lack of sanitation and degradation of ecology,” he charged.
Replying to a question, Iris said the CVF has now sought the intervention of the Chief Secretary to direct the various authorities to initiate action, failing which the Forum has threatened to knock the doors of the courts as a last resort. “We are highlighting these illegal activities because the authorities are in league with the parties. The Forum will knock the doors of the court at the right time,” Iris warned.
