MARGAO
Velim MLA Cruz Silva has demanded an immediate on-site investigation to ascertain the extent of the damage caused by the illegal hill-cutting activities in Kairot, Pockllivol in Velim.
In a letter addressed to the TCP Minister Vishwajit Rane, the Velim MLA has demanded that the authorities identify and prosecute all individuals or organizations involved in the act, and ensure they are held accountable for their actions.
He has asked the Minister to collaborate with local authorities, environmental experts, and concerned citizens to implement remedial measures to restore the affected area.
“I trust that you will give this matter the attention it deserves. The destruction of our environment should not be tolerated, and immediate action is necessary to rectify the harm done. I eagerly await your prompt response regarding the measures undertaken,” Cruz said in his letter, stating that the act has resulted in causing significant damage to the environment and the surrounding ecosystem in the area.
“I demand an immediate inquiry into this matter and prompt action against those responsible for this blatant destruction of our natural environment. The irreversible consequences of hill cutting are not limited to visual pollution and landscape degradation; they also disrupt crucial ecosystems, endanger wildlife, and degrade the overall quality of life for both present and future generations,” he said.
He added: “The unauthorized hill cutting at Kairot, Pockllivol represents a grave violation of environmental preservation laws and regulations. As the governing body responsible for overseeing land use and urban planning, it is of utmost importance that the Town and Country Planning Department takes immediate action to identify the individuals or organizations involved in this criminal act,” he said.
