Parra p’yat stands firm against illegal landfilling
Parra Sarpanch Daniel Lobo addressing queries from gram sabha members on Sunday.
Photo Credits: Agnelo Pereira
MAPUSA
The Parra Gram Sabha, held on Sunday, reaffirmed its strong stance against illegal landfilling in the village, with Sarpanch Daniel Lobo emphasising that the concerned authorities must take action against such activities.
“The panchayat is completely against landfilling, and we have consistently acted on reported cases. If the authorities fail to take the necessary steps, then there is something wrong with the government’s administration,” Lobo stated during the meeting.
He cited two specific cases recorded in the panchayat records, where individuals were asked to remove illegally dumped mud from their properties, and both complied.
“From the very start, I have maintained that landfilling is not allowed in Parra. Whenever such incidents were reported, we ensured that the responsible individuals removed the dumped mud,” he added.
Lobo further mentioned that all pending cases had been forwarded to the relevant authorities, including the Town and Country Planning Department (TCP) and the Collector’s office, to restore the affected land to its original state.
The gram sabha also discussed the growing issue of waste being dumped in open areas and along roadsides. Former Sarpanch Benedict D’Souza raised concerns over garbage and broken bottles being discarded at various points in the village, calling for strict action against violators.
Several villagers echoed similar concerns, urging the panchayat to take proactive measures to curb the garbage menace.
Lobo stressed that while the panchayat has the authority to fine individuals for illegal dumping, community cooperation is crucial.