MARGAO
The felling of mangroves along the banks of river Sal has angered local along the coastal belt.
While Orlim Panch member Gaundencio Luis has lodged a complaint with the Panchayat and other authorities over the felling of mangroves, activist Royla Fernandes has demanded action in the matter on priority, demanding to know whether the clearance of the mangroves is part of the Sagarmala project.
Luis demanded to know whether the ongoing desilting work contract has a provision to clear the mangroves along the river banks. “I am shocked and surprised over the way the mangroves are being cut down during the river Sal de-silting work. The authorities should immediately explain how the mangroves can be cut down during the desilting work,” he said.
The Panch member further demanded to know whether any agency is monitoring the ongoing desilting works and whether the works conform to the laid down specifications and parameters.
Activist Royla Fernandes pointed out that people inhabiting the banks of river Sal has been left shocked and surprised over the way the mangroves are being cut down. “We want the authorities to explain and clear why the mangroves are being cut when the project is for the desilting of the river,” she added.
