Water body pollution signals ecological collapse
According to the recent report ‘39 lakes placed under lowest water quality category’ (NT Jan 27), the survey conducted by the Water Resources Department has revealed that 59% of Goa’s water bodies which includes lakes, ponds and tanks are highly polluted . Accordingly, 39 lakes have been placed in the lowest category of water quality, unfit for even bathing, but can be used for irrigation and industrial purposes. The report has also warned of construction activity in the vicinity of water bodies that could lead to pollution and destruction of the ecology. This is a slap in the face of the Goa government and a vindication of the sustained agitation and demand of Chimbel residents to scrap the Unity Mall project that could lead to pollution of the nearby Toyyar lake, and destruction of the ecology. It is hoped that the Goa govt now realises the gravity of the situation and that it is not without reason that people of Goa oppose unplanned development and upcoming projects
A F Nazareth, Porvorim
Ecology at risk
After the Toyyar lake in Chimbel, it is the Bondvoll lake in Santa Cruz which is now in focus. Villagers of Santa Cruz had reportedly threatened to launch an agitation if construction licenses issued near Bondvoll lake are not revoked. This is a catchment area and it is important to protect it from construction activities which will lead to sewage discharge and water contamination. People living around the lake depend on clean water from their wells. For generations the lake has provided vital irrigation for paddy and rabi crops in the St Cruz region. The lake and its surrounding wetlands serve as a critical habitat for various bird species and supports local biodiversity, making it an important ecological site. It acts as a natural reservoir for freshwater. The TCP Minister Vishwajit Rane has reportedly announced that no development permission will be granted within 150-meter radius of the lake even where settlement permission exists. A fixed buffer of 150 meters is a minimum safety line and not a guarantee of protection of the lake. Whether it is sufficient depends on the slope of surrounding land, soil type, rainfall and flooding patterns and construction intensity. Is the very demand for “lake view apartments” ironically destroying our lakes? Tall buildings alter wind flow. Increased population means more waste and sewage which will pollute the lake water. It is pertinent to note that the Environment Report 2025 has raised serious concerns over the worsening condition of lakes across the state with 39 lakes included in the “lowest water quality” category. Indeed Goa risks losing its lakes as functional ecosystems.
Adelmo Fernandes, Vasco
Violence against Hindus
Bangladeshi Hindus are once again facing grave danger, following the horrific incident in which a young Hindu man was burnt to death inside a garage. Attacks on the Hindu community have been on the rise since 2025. In December, another youth, Amrit Mandal, was allegedly lynched by a mob and set on fire, highlighting the growing pattern of violence. Hindus constitute barely 8–9 per cent of Bangladesh’s population, yet they continue to face brutal attacks, killings, and systematic intimidation. Since the change in leadership, violence against Hindus appears unending, with repeated attacks on temples, cultural symbols, and homes, while the perpetrators often go unpunished. Ironically, in India, even verbal or symbolic targeting of minorities triggers swift government action and widespread protests. However, when Hindus are violently attacked in neighbouring countries, there is an unsettling silence. This raises a troubling question: are Hindus being taken for granted because of their tolerance? In countries like Bangladesh and Pakistan, Hindus are frequently treated inhumanely precisely because they are a small minority. Yet, when members of other communities face even minor issues elsewhere, minority bodies respond swiftly, often turning trivial matters into high-voltage controversies. These repeated incidents clearly indicate that Hindus are unsafe and inadequately protected, despite incidents of lynching and extreme violence. The Indian government and Hindu organisations must take a firm stand and issue a clear ultimatum to ensure the safety of Hindus abroad, failing which strong diplomatic measures should be considered. The Prime Minister must intervene to ensure that Hindu communities receive the same protection and dignity abroad as other minorities do worldwide. Continued neglect and dehumanisation can only sow the seeds of deeper conflict.
Raju Ramamurthy, Vasco
