According to a recent newspaper report, a survey conducted by the Water Resources Department has revealed that 59 per cent of Goa's water bodies which includes lakes, ponds and tanks are highly polluted. Accordingly, 39 lakes have been placed in the lowest category of water quality, unfit for even bathing, but can be used for irrigation and industrial purposes. The report has also warned of construction activity in the vicinity of water bodies that could lead to pollution and destruction of the ecology. This is a slap in the face of the Goa govt and a vindication of the sustained agitation and demand of Chimbel residents to scrap the Unity mall project that could lead to pollution of the nearby Toyyar lake, and destruction of the ecology. It is hoped that the Goa govt now realises the gravity of the situation and that it is not without reason that people of Goa oppose unplanned development and upcoming projects
