SANGUEM
The agitation led by villagers from Mirabag and several neighbouring villages in Sanvordem against the proposed Rs 280 crore Zuari River bandhara project entered its 11th day on Friday, with protestors intensifying their demand for the complete scrapping of the project.
The residents have expressed deep concern that the construction of the bandhara would result in the submerging of houses, agricultural fields and vital community infrastructure along the riverbanks.
According to locals, nearly 500 houses are likely to be affected, while the revered Rakhander temple, local schools and fertile plantations also face the threat of being submerged if the project is implemented.
What began as a village-level protest has now grown into what leaders describe as a “pan-Goa movement,” with representatives and residents from more than a dozen villages extending solidarity to the agitation.
Several opposition parties have come out in support of the protestors.
Goa Forward Party President Vijai Sardesai visited the agitation site on the 11th day and strongly criticised the government’s approach.
He alleged that the BJP-led government has taken people for granted and is attempting to impose projects on villagers that were neither sought nor demanded by them.
Sardesai stated that the project was not demanded by residents of Mirabag or Panchawadi, where water from the proposed bandhara is expected to be released.
He further expressed apprehension that the project may not be intended for the benefit of local communities but instead to serve the interests of capitalists and businessmen eyeing access to water from the Zuari River.
Assuring the villagers of his support, Sardesai said he would raise the matter extensively during the forthcoming Assembly session and termed the project a “major scam,” citing concerns over environmental impact and lack of transparency.
WRD to clarify, address objections by February 28
