VASCO
Nearly six weeks have passed since Cyclone Tauktae battered the State and some trees uprooted during the cyclone still lie along the roadside at Hollant in Velsao, posing a threat to motorists at night.
Locals are also upset that roadside drains have not been cleaned and as a result, rainwater has inundated many low-lying areas, hampering access to many houses in the area.
Speaking to reporters, a resident, Geeta Borkar, said they had faced hardships due to the flooding of houses during the rains.
"We are facing problems due to waterlogging because the roadside drains are not cleaned. We have a Portuguese-era spring which was used by our forefathers and due to the clogged drains, water gushes in our house bringing along with it mud, leaves, branches and sometimes garbage as well,” lamented Borkar.
The trees that fell during the cyclone are yet to be cleared as well and we request the authorities to clear the fallen trees, desilt the drains and clean the spring," said Borkar.
Another resident, Gaurish Borkar, said many motorists risk hitting the fallen trees by the roadside especially at night because some areas are not illuminated.
When contacted, ward panch Nandita Dayal said the panchayat had immediately cleared many trees which had fallen on the road after the cyclone.
"We immediately cleared 25 trees and 13 electricity poles which were blocking the roads at Hollant using the help of the fire services, electricity department and Indian Navy. We also used a JCB to clear the road.”
“Within a day or two after the cyclone, we cleared the main road right up to Hollant Beach and internal village roads, so that people can exit the village in case of any emergency.”
“Now, some trees fallen by the roadside do not belong to the panchayat and we cannot dispose of them. Since the trees belong to landlords and residents, it is their responsibility to clear the trees lying by the roadside," said Dayal.
“As far as desilting of roadside drains, Cortalim MLA Alina Saldanha has been informed and she is pursuing the matter with WRD. We are sure these works will also be taken up soon," said Dayal.
