The villagers of Santo Estevam are deeply concerned about the delay in repairing the Vaikhazan Manos (Sluice Gate). As per Order No. MAM/TIS/31/AK-II/TEN-ASSO/2024/280 dated 24/01/2024, the Mamlatdar of Tiswadi Taluka had deputed a technical official to undertake the construction of the bundh and the sluice gate. However, no work has commenced to date. Consequently, the residents of Santo Estevam continue to suffer from the ingress of water into the khazan lands, leading to crop damage and loss. It is important to highlight that the villagers are not in favour of strengthening the bundh. In the interest of addressing the immediate problem, the authorities should prioritise repairing the sluice gate, which is the primary cause of recurrent flooding, crop destruction, and the resulting health hazards as water encroaches upon adjoining houses.
