MAPUSA
At the Siolim-Marna gram sabha held on Sunday, villagers unanimously called for the reinstatement of the State’s “zero bill scheme” for water, citing high inflation and inadequate water supply.
They also passed a series of environmental and infrastructure-related demands aimed at improving sustainability and public amenities in the village.
Residents expressed concern over the discontinuation of the free water scheme from May 1.
Under this scheme, households consuming less than 16,000 litres (16 cubic metres) of water per month were exempted from paying water bills. The initiative had benefited nearly half of the State’s population.
“The sudden decision to scrap the scheme has deeply affected many families, especially when water supply itself is inconsistent,” said Joaquim Barros, a local resident.
He urged the government to reinstate the scheme to provide financial relief to struggling households.
The gram sabha also passed a resolution to make rainwater harvesting and tree plantation mandatory for all upcoming construction projects in the village.
“No occupancy certificate should be granted unless the project has a functioning rainwater harvesting system,” Barros insisted.
He further proposed that a report on the implementation of rainwater harvesting across projects be presented in every gram sabha session.
Barros also recommended that each new construction project in Siolim be required to donate at least 100 fruit-bearing saplings to help restore the local ecosystem.
“Many trees are cut down to make way for buildings and villas, and it’s time the developers contribute meaningfully to offset the damage,” he added.
Environmental concerns were echoed by another resident, Gregory D’Souza, who highlighted the long-defunct water fountain near St Anthony’s Church.
“The beautification project has been abandoned midway. The water resources department must act swiftly to repair and restart the fountain,” he said.
D’Souza suggested fitting the fountain’s tank with a backup water pump, which could serve as a fire hydrant refilling point in case of emergencies.
The gram sabha also focused on ensuring proper urban planning and adherence to construction norms.
Villagers demanded strict enforcement of road setbacks in all new and roadside development projects.
“Occupancy certificates must only be issued if the project complies with the setbacks as approved by the Town and Country Planning (TCP) department,” Barros added.
