Call on p'yat to penalize negligent owners
Sodiem Siolim Sarpanch Deepa Pednekar addressing the gram sabha meeting on Sunday.
MAPUSA
Residents of Sodiem Siolim raised several pressing issues during the gram sabha held on Sunday, demanding swift action from the panchayat on concerns ranging from stray cattle to illegal activities at construction sites.
Villagers expressed frustration over stray cattle left unattended on public roads, posing serious risks to commuters and the animals themselves. They called on the panchayat to penalize negligent cattle owners and urged authorities to write to the Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Services department to halt subsidies for farmers who allow their cattle to roam freely.
Responding to the issue, Sarpanch Deepa Pednekar said, “Notices have already been issued to cattle owners. We will soon begin lifting stray cattle and relocating them to gaushalas.”
The villagers raised objections to a multi-dwelling projects with swimming pools in the village, voicing fears over the potential strain on the water supply from the Public Works Department (PWD), which could affect local residents. However, the Panchayat Secretary clarified that construction-related matters could not be discussed in gram sabha meetings, as per government directives.
Another pressing issue was the alleged presence of bouncers at construction sites, who were accused of engaging in anti-social activities. Villagers demanded strict action against those involved.
Concerns over a persistent water leakage from the Tillari Canal were also highlighted.
Local resident Peter De Souza urged compensation for farmers who have suffered due to the leakage over the years.
Deputy Sarpanch Nilesh Vaigankar informed the gathering that the authorities had responded, asking for compensation claims, but no applications had been received so far.
It was decided to raise awareness among villagers to help affected farmers file claims.
De Souza also suggested the panchayat take steps to bring barren land under community farming and crack down on illegal fencing using sheets erected without proper construction licenses.
The gram sabha was chaired by Sarpanch Deepa Pednekar and Deputy Sarpanch Vaigankar, who assured attendees that the panchayat would address their concerns in a timely manner.
