The alleged unauthorised installation of a concrete slab over a vital storm water drain in Arpora.
MAPUSA
The Calangute Constituency Forum (CCF) has raised a red flag over the clandestine construction activity carried out by a developer in Arpora and is calling for an immediate site inspection and issuance of a stop-work order against the illegal
construction.
In a complaint addressed to the Chief Secretary and Chief Engineer of WRD among other authorities, the CCF highlighted the unauthorised installation of a concrete slab over a vital stormwater drain.
The brazen act unfolding near the office of Arpora Nagoa panchayat has sent shockwaves through the community.
Concerned citizens and environmentalists alike have voiced their dismay over the flagrant disregard for regulations and environmental integrity.
On April 27, vigilant members of the community witnessed construction workers surreptitiously laying down the concrete slab, obstructing the natural flow of rainwater towards the western side of the main road.
“Such actions not only contravene panchayat regulations and TCP rules but also pose grave risks to the safety and environmental well-being of the locality,” said Premanand Diukar, President of CCF.
According to the Forum, the concrete slab obstructs the vital stormwater drain, threatening to exacerbate flooding issues during heavy rainfall.
It further said that stormwater drains are pivotal in maintaining ecological balance and preventing waterlogging.
The CCF also said that the construction has been undertaken without proper authorisation and violates panchayat laws and TCP rules.
Urging swift action in the matter, the CCF demanded immediate inspection of the site to verify the reported illegal construction, issue a stop-work notice to the responsible parties mandating the removal of the concrete slab, and impose penalties and fines.
