Team Goemkarponn
VELIM: Velim MLA Engr. Cruz Silva has written to Forest Minister Vishwajit Rane, Environment & Climate Change Minister Aleixo Sequeira, and Goa Forest Department Chairperson Deviya Rane, urging immediate intervention to address the unchecked mangrove overgrowth along the River Sal.
In his letter, Silva highlighted the stretch from Colleawaddo (near the Cavelossim-Assolna bridge) to Ambelim Soccobanda as being severely affected by dense mangrove expansion. While acknowledging the ecological importance of mangroves, he raised concerns about their rapid spread causing serious disruptions to traditional fishing routes and local livelihoods.
“The narrowing of the river has blocked the passage of fishing canoes, directly affecting the livelihood of traditional fishermen,” Silva stated. He also pointed out that the thick mangrove cover has become a breeding ground for mosquitoes, creating health risks for nearby residents, and has led to an increased presence of bats—impacting coconut cultivation in the region.
Silva further noted that the overgrowth has inadvertently turned the area into a collection site for plastic and other pollutants, aggravating environmental degradation. He urged the concerned departments to conduct an immediate inspection and implement balanced, ecologically sensitive management of the mangroves.
Calling for swift action, the MLA emphasized the need to protect both the local ecosystem and the socio-economic fabric of riverside communities.
