Of late, Valpoi has been facing a serious monkey menace, causing considerable loss and inconvenience to residents. A large troop of around 20–25 monkeys, believed to be coming from the nearby forests, first enters the Valpoi Post Office premises and then moves onto the roofs of residential houses and surrounding trees. The monkeys damage roof tiles, water pipes and plants, while also destroying and consuming crops and fruits such as tender coconuts, bananas, papayas and other produce. Their activities have resulted in substantial losses and considerable hardship for local residents. The matter has already been brought to the notice of the Deputy Collector’s Office and the Range Forest Officer. However, no effective remedial action has been taken so far, nor has any compensation been provided for the losses suffered by residents. Will the concerned Government authorities and departments urgently intervene and take appropriate measures to address this problem? At the very least, suitable measures to safely capture and relocate the monkeys should be considered. We hope the authorities will act promptly and provide much-needed relief to the citizens of Valpoi.
FRANCIS SOARES, Valpoi
