THE GOAN NETWORK
VASCO
Accusing South Goa MP Captain Viriato Fernandes of interfering in the wetland issue without a proper study, Vasco MLA Krishna Salkar said he would not allow any builder lobby to develop slums in the Maimollem Lake and its periphery by reclaiming land in the area.
"Capt. Viriato has made some statements without a proper study. The draft notification to declare Maimollem Lake as wetland was made in 2009 during the Congress government. The High Court ruling in 2010 says the draft wetland needs to be protected but Capt. Viriato seems to be unaware of these things and it is he who is in contempt of court,” said Salkar.
Salkar said for the last 50 years, the lake was being used for sewage discharge but none of these farming leaders did anything in the matter.
"I have never seen farming in this area for the last 50 years but I was told by my father that there used to be farming prior to that for four months, after which this used to be a catchment area.”
“These leaders were also absent when the farmland on the other side of the lake was totally landfilled for a swimming pool project that never took off. These leaders only want to misguide people for political benefits," added Salkar.
The MLA said that he had already assured farmers that there was no objection to carry out agricultural activity, but the focus was to stop sewage discharge in the lake.
"I have had a series of meetings with all stakeholders, including farmers and land owners, and all were very happy with this project.”
"Leo Rodrigues was MMC chairperson for one whole year but he did nothing for these farmers despite claiming to be a farmer himself. I have written correspondence with the government to call for a public hearing to address the suggestions and objections and we will take up the project only after taking every stakeholders into confidence.”
BOATING ACTIVITY
Salkar said boating activities proposed at the Maimollem Lake had been discussed with all farmers in the area.
"As far as boating is concerned, I had a meeting with all farmers in the area and placed a proposal that they can carry out activities in the farming season that lasts for four months. Once the water is filled and the area turns into a catchment area, they can have boating activities to generate more revenue as a compensation for losses they face for eight months in the year,” said Salkar.
“I have written to the wetland authorities that boating activities be given to stakeholders. I have not given boating activities to a private party nor do I have any interest in this business. I only want that these stakeholders benefit additionally from this project, which will be a win-win situation for all," said Salkar.
