Melanie J Mascarenhas
Goa, our cherished homeland, is facing an existential crisis. The politician-builder mafia is systematically ravaging the very essence of what makes Goa unique. Our fields, forests, rivers, hills, lakes, and cultural heritage are all under threat from unchecked development driven by greed and collusion between politicians and unscrupulous builders. This assault on Goa’s environment and heritage cannot go on unchallenged. It is time for us, the people, to take action and protect what remains of our beloved state.
Goa’s identity is deeply intertwined with its natural beauty. The green hills, fertile fields, and pristine rivers that have sustained generations are now being bulldozed to make way for concrete structures. Rampant construction of hotels, resorts, and commercial complexes is taking place at an alarming rate, often in violation of environmental laws. Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) norms meant to protect the coastline are being ignored, and wetlands, mangroves, and sand dunes are being destroyed to accommodate luxury developments. This devastation not only damages ecosystems but also makes our communities more vulnerable to climate change and natural disasters like floods and erosion.
Our forests, which are home to rich biodiversity and an integral part of the Western Ghats, are being cleared for illegal mining and construction projects. These activities not only devastate the environment but also threaten the livelihoods of local communities who depend on the land for agriculture and sustenance. The pollution of rivers from mining runoff and construction waste is further endangering freshwater sources that are essential to both human and wildlife populations.
It is not just the land and environment that are being destroyed. Goa’s cultural heritage is also at risk. The traditional way of life that has shaped Goa’s identity for centuries is disappearing as fields are replaced by resorts and forests by gated communities. The politician-builder nexus is erasing the cultural and historical significance of many areas, replacing them with unsustainable projects that serve only a privileged few.
What is most disheartening is the blatant disregard for the laws meant to protect our environment. The corrupt collaboration between politicians and builders allows illegal projects to continue, despite protests from concerned citizens and environmental activists. It is clear that the authorities who are supposed to safeguard Goa’s heritage have failed us.
But all hope is not lost. We, the people of Goa, have the power to make a difference. We must unite to demand accountability from our elected representatives. We must insist that environmental regulations be strictly enforced and that illegal activities cease immediately. We must support sustainable development practices that respect Goa’s ecology and culture.
Every individual can contribute to the preservation of Goa. Whether through raising awareness, supporting local conservation efforts, or participating in peaceful activism, we can all play a role in safeguarding our home.
Goa’s unique ecological and cultural heritage is irreplaceable. If we do not act now, future generations will inherit a land that has been irreparably damaged. Let us stand together to protect what remains before it is too late.