PORVORIM
Environment Minister Aleixo Sequeira on Friday said the task to protect and preserve wetlands is not only the responsibility of government but also of residents in the area.
“Wetlands get polluted because of dumping of plastics and garbage. We should commit ourselves to protect and preserve wetlands. The government’s job is to support local bodies in protecting the wetlands,” said Sequeira.
He was speaking as the chief guest at the State-level celebration of World Wetlands Day 2024 at Saulem Lake in Pilerne organised by the Goa State Wetland Authority (GSWA) under the Department of Environment and Climate Change at Saulem
lake, Pilerne.
Others present on the occasion were Saligao MLA Kedar Naik , Member Secretary of Biodiversity Pradep Sarmokadam, ZP Member Sandeep Bandodker, Pilerne-Marra Sarpanch Reshma Bandodkar, Dy Sarpanch Amarnath Govekar, Sayajirao Rane and locals.
“The Saulem lake is very precious and the panchayat, locals and especially students should commit themselves to preserve it for posterity,”
said Sequeira.
Saligao MLA Kedar Naik said the Saulem Lake has ensured that the wells in the area never go dry.
“Migratory birds also visit this lake every year. Hence, people should not throw plastic and garbage in this lake, but must ensure that it does not get polluted. The panchayat should also be vigilant and create awareness among residents about the importance of this lake from a human point of view and to foster eco-tourism,” said Naik.
He thanked the environment minister for notifying Saulem lake as a wetland.
Head of nodal agency, GSWA Dr Pradip Sarmokadam, ZP Member Sandeep Bandodkar also spoke on the occasion.
Dy Sarpanch of Pilerne“Marra Amarnath Govenkar welcomed the gathering and Director of Environment and Climate Change Johnson B. Fernandes later proposed the vote of thanks.
