MAPUSA
Emerging as a vocal opponent against the chopping down of century-old mango trees in Siolim, the green crusader Avertino Miranda described the slaughtering of the age-old trees as mass murder and vowed to take legal action against the felling of these trees, which he deems unwarranted.
Miranda also called upon the people of Goa to remain united to fight the onslaught of unplanned development which is destroying the small State of Goa known for its greenery and scenic beauty.
“The beauty of Goa is because of its greenery. Which tourist will come to a desert? This incident (cutting of mango trees) is just the tip of the iceberg. I have seen private forests being cut in Siolim. They are converting huge parcels of land and private forest in Assagao and Siolim. We need to stop this. I will soon challenge this issue in the court,” Miranda said, while addressing a gathering of concerned citizens and local residents during a candlelit vigil under the banner of 'Save Siolim Trees.'
The recent incident in Siolim-Marna, where substantial mango trees and compound walls were razed to widen a 4-kilometer road stretch, has sparked outrage among locals.
Complaints have arisen regarding the lack of procedural adherence by the Public Works Department (PWD) authorities during the demolition process.
“This is not a lawless State. Authorities must adhere to due process, obtaining necessary approvals and conducting proper land acquisition procedures through tender processes," emphasised Fatima Fernandes, a resident of Siolim.
Politicians have also come under scrutiny during the peaceful protest, with residents expressing discontent over the disregard for public opinion by elected representatives.
Erwin Fonseca of Assagao criticized the tendency of politicians to prioritise personal agendas over the welfare of their constituents.
“Our elected officials should prioritise the needs of the people they serve, rather than catering to specific interests or lobbies," Fonseca stated.
“Our MLA is Delilah Lobo, why should some other MLA from another constituency come and lord over us?” Fonseca blurted, obviously referring to Calangute MLA Michael Lobo.
Miranda's call to action underscores the growing concern among Goa's populace regarding the unsustainable development practices threatening the State's ecological balance.
