THE GOAN NETWORK
MAPUSA
Upset over the alleged failure of government agencies to act against the destruction of mangroves along the Moira riverbank, Goa Green Brigade convenor Avertino Miranda has urged the forest department, Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) and department of environment and climate change to initiate immediate action against those responsible.
In a letter, Miranda accused the three agencies of inaction despite an inspection conducted by the GCZMA on June 12. He alleged that even after more than four months, no assessment had been undertaken to determine the extent of mangrove destruction or the environmental damage caused, nor had the complainant been provided with an action taken report.
The affected land in Survey No 33/1 belongs to the Communidade de Moira, according to the complaint. Miranda alleged that large-scale destruction of mangroves had taken place along the riverbank and within the ecologically sensitive Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ), causing significant damage to the local ecosystem.
Highlighting the ecological importance of mangroves, he said they protect shorelines, support marine biodiversity and serve as breeding grounds for fish. The alleged destruction, he warned, could have wider environmental consequences for the Moira river and surrounding areas.
Miranda has demanded immediate criminal and punitive action against those responsible for the alleged destruction of mangroves in Moira's khazan lands and riverbanks.
He has also called for an urgent environmental impact assessment, including an evaluation of the damage to marine life, followed by restoration of the affected mangrove ecosystem.
Raising a further concern, Miranda claimed that crocodiles from the Moira river had begun straying into residential areas in Colvale and nearby localities, posing a potential threat to human safety.
The Goa Green Brigade has also demanded that the costs of environmental damage assessment and ecological restoration be recovered from those found responsible, rather than burdening the State exchequer.
Seeking accountability, Miranda has asked the authorities to provide an action taken report within 30 days, warning that the organisation would be compelled to initiate appropriate legal proceedings if no action is forthcoming.
There was no response from authorities concerned in the complaint to indicate what action, if any, has been initiated so far.
