The finding of underground caves in Mopa, an exotic plateau abounding in exotic flora and fauna and a United Nations protected zone is a matter of concern.
The caves denote that the initial survey work was only superficial. The whole concept and intention of having this draconian project is fatally flawed.
As per the Mopa Vimantal Sangarsh Samiti, only 29,000 square meters of land has been acquired for the project. The rest is all illegal land without paying compensations to the farmers.
Initially, even the Supreme Court ruled that the trees which number 54,676 have to be transplanted. If the rule book is not being followed then the government must abandon the project.
The pealing of the plaster from the roofs and walls of the new houses built for Dhangars is also a witness to the sub-standard quality of work implemented.
The destruction of 46 crystal clear fresh water springs is another aspect that denoted reckless destruction of natural eco-systems.
The Mopa villagers should agitate like the courageous villagers of Shel-Melauli and recover their land. The indigenous people of Mopa should not allow government to flout their own laws with impunity.
