MAPUSA
Persistent water accumulation in the upper reaches of the river at Xell-Bastora has emerged as a major concern for farmers, with villagers fearing that the obstruction of tidal flow could prevent cultivation in the area this year.
The issue came up at the ordinary Gram Sabha of Bastora panchayat on Sunday, where members unanimously resolved to approach the Water Resources Department (WRD) seeking immediate removal of the blockage and restoration of the river’s natural tidal movement.
Locals raised concern over fish vendors operating along roadsides in some wards of the village. Residents alleged that fish waste was being discarded in the vicinity, creating an unhygienic environment. The presence of mobile carts on drains and roadsides was also questioned.
Villagers also complained that roadside parking at several locations was creating bottlenecks and obstructing the movement of vehicles.
A local resident John Fernandes specifically questioned the panchayat over a fruit outlet on the Mapusa side, alleging that vehicles stopping there were worsening traffic congestion.
Sarpanch Rakhi Naroji said the panchayat had initiated action against the premises, including sealing an illegal structure. However, further action has been stalled following a stay granted by the Directorate of Panchayats (DOP).
Further, the panchayat secretary Smitha Parab disclosed that proceedings had been initiated for demolition of illegal roadside structures, but several cases remained pending either because of DOP stays or proceedings before the BDO.
Advocate John Abreu Lobo pointed out that a stay against demolition did not necessarily permit continued commercial activity from the disputed structures. A proposal to take up the issue of pending cases and stay orders with the Panchayat Minister was discussed.
Public transport was another major concern. Senior citizen Manuel Fernandes sought a mini KTCL shuttle service and more bus trips, particularly on Sundays when, he said, the village currently has no bus service.
Meanwhile, resident Ramesh Matkar alleged that a village road had sunk after a former Mapusa Municipal councillor transported a heavily loaded truck through it.
He argued that the person responsible should bear the repair cost rather than the public exchequer.
The sarpanch said the former councillor had already assured the panchayat that the road would be repaired.
