Team Goemkarponn
BETUL: Residents of Naquerim-Betul Panchayat, accompanied by Quepem MLA Alton D’Costa, staged a silent protest outside the South Goa District Collector’s office, demanding urgent action against Hughes Precision Manufacturing Pvt. Ltd. The protest follows a recent explosion at the company’s warehouse on March 21, 2025, which the community alleges was the result of the company’s illegal operations.
The residents voiced their strong opposition to the presence of the company in their neighborhood, raising concerns over their safety and the environment. They highlighted the explosion as a major risk to their lives and criticized the authorities for not investigating the incident despite a formal complaint being filed.
“We are here today because the explosion at the company’s warehouse has jeopardized our safety and we have not seen any action from the authorities,” said a local protester. “The company continues to operate without any accountability, and our lives are at risk.”
Quepem MLA Alton D’Costa, who joined the protestors, called for an immediate inquiry into the company’s operations. He stressed that the company, which reportedly manufactures ammunition and stores explosives, has continued its operations without the necessary oversight or investigation. “This protest is meant to open the eyes of the government and demand that they take action. The company’s licenses have not been suspended, and no investigation has been conducted into the explosion,” D’Costa said during the protest.
The community also raised concerns about the potential contamination of nearby freshwater springs, which are vital for both residents and local wildlife. Protesters warned that during the upcoming monsoon season, runoff from the site could pollute these water sources, creating severe public health risks.
“The water from the nearby springs is essential for us. If the runoff from the company site contaminates it, the consequences will be dire for both humans and animals that rely on it,” another protester remarked.
The protest, which has gained significant attention, calls for an immediate government intervention to investigate Hughes Precision Manufacturing Pvt. Ltd. and suspend its operations until it meets safety standards. The residents are urging authorities to prioritize their safety and environmental protection to avoid further risks.
As of now, no official response has been issued by the district authorities or the company. The community continues to demand justice and assurances that their concerns will be taken seriously by the Government.
