MAPUSA
Sirsaim locals came out in large numbers to oppose the material recovery facility (MRF) site which is being set up near a popular spring in the village.
Several villagers along with social activists gathered at the site which is at the border of two villages “ Sirsiam and Assonora “ protesting against the decision of the panchayat.
A local said the panchayat should shift the MRF site anywhere else but not at the present site which would cause damage to the spring and the environment.
“The garbage segregation will destroy the pristine surrounding in this sprawling site. Our Sirsaim people and farmers should not get affected. The panchayat should shift the MRF to another site,” he said.
Activist Ramesh Gawas stressed the need to protect the spring and the surrounding.
He advised the people not to get upset with the Assonora or Sirsaim panchayat as the fight was against an issue.
“This MRF shed has government blessings. It’s important to engage with the panchayat members of Sirsiam and Assonora. We are not against them. Our concern is the area and the spring,” Gawas said.
According to activist Swapnesh Sherlekar the panchayats were forced to put up MRF sites because the High Court has been following the matter.
“Every panchayat wants to set up the MRF site not because of the love of the people but because they are facing the wrath of the HC,” Sherlekar said.
He further said that the people of Sirsaim were not against the MRF shed but the location of the shed.
Activists Shankar Polgi and Rajendra Ghate also spoke.
