MAPUSA
What began as simmering discontent against the proposed acquisition of additional land for the solid waste treatment plant at Saligao has now spilt over into a larger village-wide movement.
No longer is the opposition confined to the local panchayat body and the seminary on the hillock; villagers themselves are stepping forward, determined to resist what they call the government’s “back-door move” to expand the facility.
On Sunday evening, around 50 to 60 villagers gathered at Salmona ward in an impromptu meeting, the first of what locals say will be many more. The mood was one of resolve and unity.
“In the past, the government tried to divide us. Now we have come together with just one aim: to be on the same page against any move to acquire more land for the treatment plant,” said a local resident who has lived in the shadow of the plant since its inception.
For the resident, the issue is deeply personal. His home sits at the foothill of the plant, where the stench is a daily reminder of its operations.
“Initially, we were promised only a 100 TPD treatment plant. Now it has gone up to 250 TPD. There is something sinister happening here, and the villagers are kept in the dark,” he said, his voice laced with frustration.
The meeting was described as an “awareness session”, a way for villagers to discuss the current status of the plant and to chalk out an action plan.
While no formal resolutions were passed, the consensus was clear: they would remain vigilant, meet often and monitor developments closely.
“We are hurt because the government is trying to push this land acquisition for a so-called buffer zone without taking the people into confidence,” another local added.
Local panchayat member Umesh Malik, popularly known as Balu, has been playing a key role in mobilising villagers. He emphasised the need for people to stay engaged and alert.
The Sunday gathering, while small, was symbolic “ it marked the beginning of a grassroots resistance beyond institutional opposition.
