MALL PROTEST: Chimbel locals sit on an indefinite hunger strike at the ‘Unity Mall’ site on Sunday.
PANAJI
Residents of Chimbel launched an indefinite hunger strike on Sunday at the site of the Tourism Department’s proposed Unity Mall and Prashasan Stambh projects, alleging violations of court orders and threats to the fragile ecosystem surrounding the historic Toyyar Lake.
The protest comes in the wake of claims that construction activity has commenced despite a stay order issued by the Panaji Sessions Court, directing status quo until January 8 next year, the next date of hearing.
Villagers have alleged that permissions were granted by authorities and the local panchayat even while the court’s directive was in force, undermining judicial authority.
The Chimbel gram sabha had earlier passed resolutions rejecting the development, citing environmental concerns and the lack of community consent.
Protesters argue that the project endangers wetlands, disrupts local livelihoods, and threatens Toyyar Lake -- a water body of historic importance that once supplied drinking water to Panaji.
“We will not allow Toyyar Lake and its ecosystem to be destroyed in the name of development,” said one of the leaders at the protest, adding that the community has resolved to continue its agitation until construction is halted and court orders are respected.
The residents’ action highlights growing tensions between the State-led infrastructure projects and local communities concerned about ecological preservation.
Environmentalists have also voiced support to the Chimbel locals, warning that unchecked construction could irreversibly damage wetlands that serve as natural flood buffers and biodiversity zones.
The hunger strike has drawn attention to what villagers describe as administrative overreach and disregard for judicial directives. Protesters accuse the authorities of pushing the project without transparency or adequate consultation, while ignoring the ecological and cultural significance of the site.
The Chimbel protest adds to a growing list of citizen-led agitations across Goa, where communities are increasingly challenging projects perceived to be detrimental to environmental safeguards.
