Arambol locals warn of water crisis if hill conversion allowed

Pernem: Residents of Arambol village have intensified their objections to the proposed conversion of around three lakh square metres of land from no development zone (NDZ) to settlement, warning that the move would destroy the village ecology and lead to severe water scarcity.

Villagers said the large-scale conversion would drastically alter the character of Arambol and put pressure on the natural resources. Expressing concern over the lack of clarity on proposed projects, locals said the conversion must be stopped to prevent irreversible environmental and demographic changes.

“Three lakh square metres land is being converted to settlement. We don’t know what projects will be developed here. How many residential buildings will come but this has to be stopped otherwise the ecology and demography of the village will change. The village should be kept as a village. We don’t want a city here. Today foreigners come here to enjoy nature. If we allow the settlement of this hill, in the coming time the other hills in the village will be converted and destroyed, one by one. First the Portuguese ruled us for 450 years, now the Delhi people are colonizing with money power,” a youth said.

Another local said, “If the hill is converted to settlement, the major issue will be faced is water scarcity, huge amounts of waste will be generated which will lead to mismanagement of waste, the sewerage will flow down the hill which will destroy the ground water.”

Babu Naik, another local, said, “To protect the peace, natural source of water and pollution-free environment, we will never allow conversion of land into settlement.”

“We appeal to people to unite and fight to protect the village,” Naik added.