MAPUSA
The Goa Green Brigade (GGB) on Wednesday said that the Bombay High Court at Goa made the Calangute MLA and the Siolim-Marna sarpanch a party in the tree cutting case after the petitioners put forward compelling evidence, including two videos and their transcripts.
“These materials purportedly shed light on the alleged involvement of the Siolim-Marna Sarpanch/Panchayat Secretary and the Calangute MLA Michael Lobo in the felling of 35 age-old heritage trees in Siolim, both along the roadside and on private properties,” said Avertino Miranda, Convenor of GGB.
The green activist emphasised the importance of holding accountable those found guilty in the case. The brigade advocates for exemplary punishment to serve as a deterrent against similar actions in the future, stressing the significance of ensuring that lawmakers uphold the law rather than flout it.
It has voiced concerns over the escalating trend of unlawful tree destruction and rapid development in the region, allegedly facilitated by collusion between builders, forest officials, politicians, and individuals in positions of power.
They warn against the irreversible damage to Goa’s natural heritage, highlighting the potential repercussions on groundwater resources, soil erosion, and overall environmental balance.
While acknowledging the necessity of development, the GGB advocates for sustainable practices that prioritize the preservation of natural heritage.
