Team Goemkarponn
RIVONA: Rivona gram sabha on Sunday witnessed heated exchanges over multiple civic and environmental issues, including road widening, delay in release of water for paddy cultivation, illegal kayaking activities and opposition to mega development projects in the panchayat area.
One of the key flashpoints was the proposed widening of village roads, which is likely to result in the demolition of several roadside shops. Affected locals voiced strong fears over the loss of their livelihoods. Responding to the concerns, the sarpanch assured the house that the panchayat stands with the affected shopkeepers and that the matter would be taken up with the concerned authorities.
Another major issue raised was the continued non-release of irrigation water for paddy fields. Villagers alleged that the Water Resources Department has not yet released water, severely affecting farmers during the cultivation season. The gram sabha resolved to request the sarpanch to immediately write to the department seeking urgent release of water.
Serious concern was also expressed over illegal kayaking activities allegedly being conducted in a protected area of Carvão. Members stated that no no-objection certificate had been issued by the panchayat and that even the deputy sarpanch and ward members were unaware of such activities. The gram sabha unanimously passed a resolution to stop the operations and demanded strict action against those responsible. The sarpanch assured that appropriate steps would be taken.
In a strong message against unregulated development, residents of the Rivona constituency also unanimously resolved that no mega projects — including commercial developments or plotting — would be allowed within the panchayat area, citing threats to village life and the local environment.
The stormy meeting underlined rising public concern in Rivona over development, environmental protection and the livelihoods of local residents.
