The authorities’ decision to cut age-old trees for infrastructure development is hasty and unlawful. This is an mindless and unscientific removal of trees. And this comes during preparation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s public meeting at KTC Bus Stand in Margao. These trees acted as shelter for the public from the scorching heat, besides adding to the green cover at stretches. Netizens are shocked to see the green canopy gone in a jiffy. Goa has seen a systematic destruction of trees. There is no effort made for transplantation or compensatory afforestation. The least our government authorities can do is involve citizens in the constituency’s infrastructure projects and seek opinions from citizens before acting in haste. There is a necessity of a proper mechanism to record the number of trees in the city, in accordance with the Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986, and Article 51A of the Indian Constitution. Some of the infrastructure projects have caused severe negative impact to the trees and Goa’s rich biodiversity. Further the Goan roads have become a silent killer to everyday commuters. Now, Goa is no longer the preferred destination. A majority of the tourists view Goa as a place for booze and parties only.
