MARGAO
In Cuncolim, fishing nets draped over rooftops may puzzle visitors and locals alike. But behind this unusual sight is a growing problem that residents have been facing for a long time ” a persistent monkey menace that refuses to go away.
Entire neighbourhoods, especially in Maddicotto and Milhanvaddo, and places like Dandora, have come under attack from groups of monkeys jumping across rooftops and causing damage. Roof tiles are getting broken and moved, while plastic sheets meant to keep out rain are being torn, creating serious problems for many residents.
“The damage is serious,” said AW Norohna, a resident of Maddicotto. “When these monkeys jump on our roofs, the tiles break and the rainwater seeps into the house. It soaks the walls, and in older houses, this could lead to structural collapse, putting lives at risk.”
Frustrated by the lack of effective action from the authorities, including the Forest Department and Cuncolim Municipal Council, residents have started using creative and traditional methods to protect their homes. One method gaining attention is laying fishing nets over rooftops to stop monkeys from jumping on them.
“It’s a trial-and-error method,” explained another resident. “We’re not sure if the nets will work, but we’re trying whatever we can. The tiles are expensive to replace, and during the monsoons, finding workers to carry out repairs is nearly impossible.”
With no help from the authorities so far, locals have also used firecrackers to chase away the monkeys. “Initially, this method had worked to some extent, but somehow this is no solution to the monkey menace”, a resident added.
Norohna believes the authorities have either ignored the problem or have not taken it seriously. He urged the government and municipal officials to act quickly and consult wildlife experts to find a humane solution, possibly by moving the monkeys to forests or zoos.
He added, “The intervention of our MLA, who is also the Leader of the Opposition, could be instrumental in addressing this issue.”
Until a long-term solution is found, fishing nets may remain a strange but necessary sight on the rooftops of Cuncolim.
