Polluted wells, stray cattle dominate proceedings at Siolim gram sabha

the goan I network
MAPUSA

Raising the issues of pollution of a public well at Modlem-Bhat, two concerned women members informed the gram sabha that some unscrupulous persons had polluted a public well in their area which was used by at least eight families.
Without taking names, they said the owner of a commercial structure had built a septic tank very close to the public well in Modlim-Bhat.
Since the owner refused to their appeals not to build the septic tank close to the well, they complained to appropriate authorities.
But to their surprise, one fine day they found that someone had poured black engine oil in the well completely polluting the well water in April this year.
They further informed that despite complaining to the earlier panchayat, no action was taken in the matter. Other authorities also failed to take appropriate action, they lamented.
"We expect at least the present panchayat will take up the matter and act against those involved and resolve the issue in the interest of the villagers," they said.
They further informed the gram sabha that after continuously pursuing the matter, the authorities concerned have now fixed an inspection of the well on Monday (July 24).
"We want your support and therefore appeal to you to come for the inspection tomorrow," they appealed to the people in the gram sabha.
Most members of the gram sabha extended their support on the issue and urged the panchayat to look into
the matter.
Supporting their cause, Fatima Fernandes said many such public wells were also deliberately polluted in other parts of the village.
She said the panchayat should issue some guidelines to the builders so that they do not spoil traditional drinking facilities of the locals.
Gilbert D'Souza informed the gram sabha that stray cattle were found roaming on main roads during the day and night, inconveniencing vehicular traffic and pedestrians.
"The panchayat should take action against the stray cattle either by impounding them or empower
some NGOs to do the job," D'Souza said.
Stressing that many owners deliberately left their cattle free, Amrut Agarwadekar said panchayat should appeal to such people not to leave their cattle on the streets.