Team Goemkarponn
SALVADOR DO MUNDO: A large group of residents, environmentalists, and villagers assembled at Salvador do Mundo hill to protest against what they claim is the destruction of forest land for a proposed construction project. The demonstration was organised under the banner “Our Forest, Our Future – Save It Before It’s Gone,” drawing participation from members of the Save Goa Environment group and locals from nearby areas.
Protesters alleged that nearly 35,000 square metres of privately classified forest land is being cleared, raising serious concerns about ecological damage. Many locals expressed distress over the potential loss of biodiversity, including traditional forest produce such as wild fruits like “Kanta,” which have long been part of local culture.
Residents warned that continued destruction could deprive future generations of access to natural resources and forest experiences that have been cherished for decades. “Children today may still see these forests, but the next generation might not,” one villager remarked.
Environmental activist Dhiren Phadte claimed that the land in question is a notified private forest area. According to him, initial approvals were granted only for fencing, but heavy machinery was later brought in, leading to tree removal. He further alleged that dry leaves are being piled and set on fire near tree bases, potentially as a tactic to degrade the forest cover.
Phadte added that residents intervened after noticing the activity and managed to halt the work temporarily. He demanded that the land be designated as a No Development Zone (NDZ) and called for strict government action, including possible seizure of the property if violations are confirmed.
Alvito D’Silva, who heads the Biodiversity Management Committee of Olaulim-Pomburpa, said the area has been under observation since last year, especially after earlier fire incidents. He suggested that the site’s remote location may have made it a target for developers assuming limited public scrutiny.
He cautioned that failure to act now could lead to similar threats across surrounding forest areas. “Protecting this land is essential to preserving Goa’s ecological balance,” he said.
Other residents highlighted the ecological richness of the plateau, warning that fencing large tracts could disrupt wildlife movement and trap animals within confined spaces. Concerns were also raised over hill cutting and road expansion, which locals believe are unnecessary and harmful.
Activist groups, including the Goa Green Brigade, described the site as a critical environmental concern, urging wider public participation to prevent further degradation. Some protesters even suggested intensifying the agitation through sustained demonstrations if required.
Meanwhile, Aldona MLA Carlos Ferreira visited the site and assured locals that he would review all permissions and zoning details linked to the project. He stated that any development on forest or eco-sensitive land would not be permitted if it violates regulations.
“If the land falls under protected categories like NDZ or eco-sensitive zones, it must remain untouched. Deliberate destruction to bypass regulations is unacceptable,” Ferreira said, adding that he would examine all relevant documents and take necessary action if irregularities are found.
The protest reflects growing public concern over environmental conservation in Goa, with citizens calling for transparency and accountability in land-use decisions.
