MARGAO
The Seraulim gram sabha on Sunday decided to write to the authorities to reconsider the plan and build the western bypass on stilts along the balance stretch in Benaulim as well.
Fears of flooding of the low-lying fields in the village due to the concrete plant of the bypass blocking the flood water flow came up for discussion at the gram sabha with members saying this will impact the farming community during monsoons.
Members pointed out that though the western bypass in Seraulim and Mungul is being built on stilts, the PWD is building the Benaulim section on earth embankments, fearing this would inundate the low-lying areas of Seraulim.
The meeting saw members demanding action against those involved in illegal landfilling, even as the members asked the sarpanch to send all cases to the district authorities for action.
The meeting chaired by sarpanch Seema Shanke saw members raising concern over the spectre of flooding of low-lying fields in the village because of the concrete plant of the western bypass project blocking the flood water flow. They pointed out that flooding will impact the farmers if no corrective measures are taken by the authorities.
Members also called for the desilting of river Sal and the planting of fruit-bearing trees along the bandh.
Member Kevin D’Souza said desilting of the river Sal has been carried out but the trees on the bandh are destroyed. He said the biodiversity committee needs to assess and plan corrective action.
Members also raised the issue of filled-up low-lying fields next to the wholesale fish market and demanded action.
They pointed out that the intersection of the Road Underpass is unsafe as evidenced by the accidents that have taken place. Members have called for proper assessment and corrective action.
Saying that solar energy is viable in Goa, Kevin proposed to add a clause in the permission issued to plan for solar electricity rooftops and maybe a waiver if all feel appropriate. He also proposed solar streetlights for all new roads as they are cost-effective, besides solar electricity for church and government primary schools.
