the goan I network
QUEPEM
Virtually all shops in the markets of the twin towns of Quepem and Curchorem remained closed throughout the day in support of the Goa Bandh called by the mining dependents. Although there was heavy police presence in and around Quepem town from early morning, there was no untoward incident reported in the area.
Despite the total bandh at Quepem market, all government offices, schools and medical stores were open without any resistance from anyone.
“Due to closure of mining activity, not just truck owners and drivers, but garage owners, mechanics, restaurants owners and all consumable suppliers have been badly affected,” said Chetan Naik, a mining affected from Quepem.
“All mining dependents had high hopes on the promises made by Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar, but all the sweet talk and beautiful dreams shown to the mining dependents went in thin air. Now, it’s going to be tough for all political parties as elections are nearing and the mining affected are more cautious now than before and can’t be fooled by anyone any more,” he
added.
In Curchorem, there was a total bandh in the market as most shopkeepers and traders have been affected by the mining ban in some way or the other.
The bandh affected a number of people and in one case, Pappu Tilewala, a migrant labourer, who said he had to stay hungry as all hotels were shut in and around Curchorem town.
In the morning, about 500 mining dependents staged a peaceful rally with motorcycles and cars around Curchorem
market.
Curchorem Police Inspector Ravindra Dessai said although police were posted in and around Curchorem market, the bandh was peaceful and not a single incident of misbehaviour or untoward incident was
reported.
