the goan I network
PONDA
Environmentalist Rajendra Kerkar and social activist Ramesh Gawas on Sunday advised the villagers of Dhatwada-Usgao to knock the doors of National Green Tribunal against the company which has cut about 2,000 coconut and other trees to pave way for its extension project.
Speaking at the meeting organized by Paryavaran Janjagruti Abhiyan at Dhatwada-Usgao, Kerkar and Gawas said the villagers should not bow down to any kind of pressure from administration, politicians or the company.
The last Usgao-Ganje gram sabha had resolved to revoke construction licence issued to the extension project of the company. The company had promised to provide gym facilities and also financial support to construct panchayat building, when the nod was given to them by the local body. Speaking further, Kerkar said the only way to fight this battle is by knocking the doors of National Green Tribunal. “They are destroying our environment in the name of development. We should not allow them to do it. Let us fight in a democratic way,” he said. “I condemn the act of such company which has cut over 2,000 trees. This is not acceptable,” he added.
“We should preserve our environment and for that we will not bow to anyone,” said Kerkar. Gawas said everyone should think of next generation. “If pollution continues, how they will live,” he questioned. “If any common man tries to cut trees, then the officials come and harass them, but big companies are not even served show cause notice,” he pointed out.
Locals Laxmikant Naik, Ramakant Kuttikar, Suhas Naik, Kashinath Parkar and Suresh Gaonkar were also present.
