Team Goemkarponn
VASCO: Vasco MLA Krishna V. Salkar on Wednesday inaugurated the construction of a rock bouldering and retaining wall at a landslide-prone stretch near Khapreshwar Temple at Baina, aiming to protect houses and residents in the vulnerable Islampur area.
The project, undertaken through the Water Resources Department (WRD), comes as a long-awaited safety measure for locals who have lived under the constant threat of landslides for over a decade. The area had witnessed a major landslide incident in 2014, raising serious concerns about the stability of the slope and the safety of nearby homes.
Addressing residents and officials at the site, Salkar said the works, estimated at ₹1.5 crore, have been initiated with the primary objective of safeguarding lives and property. He stressed that ensuring the safety of citizens remains a top priority and assured that necessary steps would continue to be taken to mitigate risks in vulnerable zones.
Salkar also expressed gratitude to WRD Minister Subhash Shirodkar for extending consistent support in getting the project approved and executed. He said coordinated efforts between departments have made it possible to take up such critical infrastructure works in a timely manner.
The retaining wall and rock bouldering are expected to strengthen the hillside, prevent soil erosion, and reduce the risk of further landslides, especially during the monsoon season when the area becomes particularly susceptible.
Local residents welcomed the initiative and said the project addresses a long-standing demand. Many expressed relief that concrete steps are finally being taken to tackle the issue that has posed a threat to their homes and safety for years.
Officials from the WRD and other departments were present during the inauguration. Work on the project is expected to progress in phases, with authorities aiming to complete it before the peak monsoon period.
The initiative is seen as a significant step towards improving safety infrastructure in landslide-prone areas of Vasco and ensuring better preparedness against natural hazards.
