the goan I network
OLD GOA
Merces locals voiced concern over deteriorating environment in the village and sought help from panchayat authorities in saving the village from further destruction.
At a special gram sabha on Wednesday as part of World Environment Day celebration, the locals pointed out that unplanned development is affecting greenery in Merces as projects are given approval in hilly areas and eco-sensitive zones.
“Our topography is such that there are hills surrounding the village. But now, projects are coming up on hills which is destroying the greenery in the village. We have to save our village from destruction,” said Jose Carmin Joao,
He said that several illegal activities in low-lying areas are also posing a threat to the environment.
Michael Dias also voiced concern about projects being passed near the wells, which is leading to contamination of ground water. “This should not happen and it is the responsibility of the panchayat to see that projects near water bodies are not allowed,” Dias added.
Sudesh Kalangutkar also expressed anguish over the fact that natural beauty of the village is being compromised to please a few builders and individuals, which is compromising eco-sensitive zones. “If we continue like this, nature will teach us a lesson one day,” he warned.
No saplings received from forest dept for World Environment Day: sarpanch
OLD GOA: The Merces panchayat was expected to distribute saplings to residents as part of the World Environment Day celebration, but the distribution could not take place as the saplings were reportedly not supplied by the forest department.
“The panchayat was supposed to distribute saplings today, but the same was not received from the forest department,” Merces Sarpanch Sunita Palyekar told a gathering of residents at a special gram sabha on Wednesday.
“No sooner we receive the saplings, the same will be distributed to the villagers,” said Palyekar.
Earlier, Sarpanch Sunita Palyekar urged the locals to maintain the greenery in the village and grow trees wherever possible.
