MARGAO: Navelim residents met Salcete Deputy Collector Ganesh Bharve to discuss alleged violations regarding a cellphone tower installed in the Bellem ward of Navelim. The group submitted a memorandum with their demands and concerns to Bharve.
Speaking to the media following the meeting, they highlighted several alleged violations of the Union Department of Telecommunication (DOT) regulations. These include concerns about the tower’s proximity to residential areas, lack of proper setback, and traffic congestion due to its location on the busy National Highway (NH) 66.
The group referenced a similar case in Nuvem, where residents successfully addressed their concerns about a cell phone tower on the highway in Nuvem following the District Collector’s intervention.
According to the delegation, Deputy Collector Bharve acknowledged their concerns and stated that he has requested a report from the relevant authorities. He assured that appropriate action would be taken based on the findings of this report.
The residents emphasised that while they are not opposed to development or cellphone towers in general, the safety of local residents remains the top priority.
The residents await the results of the Deputy Collector’s inquiry and hope for a resolution that addresses their safety concerns.