Farmers affected by the proposed Borim Bridge construction expressed disappointment over the National Green Tribunal’s (NGT) recent decision to delay immediate relief but remain optimistic about future legal outcomes. They are now exploring other administrative avenues to support their cause.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has delayed its decision on the controversial construction of the new high-level Borim Bridge over the Zuari River, dealing a blow to farmers from Borim and Loutolim villages who sought an interim stay on the project. With the NGT requiring additional time for responses from the involved parties, concerns mount over potential environmental impacts and the lack of necessary clearances. As local farmers voice their objections, the matter is set for further consideration on December 2, 2024, amid ongoing debates about the bridge's implications for agriculture and fishing activities in the region.
Legal Strategy and Hope:
The farmers, led by Albert Pinheiro, President of the Carbot, Mascasana & Bebdo Tenants Association, remain hopeful for a favorable outcome at that time. Pinheiro acknowledged the setback but expressed optimism after reviewing their legal case.
Concerns Over EIA Notifications:
Farmers are pushing for the project to undergo scrutiny under the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) 2006 notifications, which they believe is a critical issue yet to be resolved by the NGT.
Fears of Land Acquisition and Construction:
Farmers had hoped for an interim stay to prevent the completion of the land acquisition process and the start of preliminary construction. Although construction has not yet begun, according to the government, there is concern that the process may proceed before a final ruling.
Alternative Actions Pursued:
Alongside the legal fight, farmers are taking other steps:
- They are seeking legal counsel after their objections were dismissed by the Special Land Acquisition Officer (SLAO).
- An application has been submitted to the Town & Country Planning (TCP) Minister and the Chief Town Planner, asking for the Regional Plan (RP) 2021 to be corrected to accurately designate their fields as Khazan lands.
- Farmers argue that incorrect designation of their fields as paddy lands instead of Khazan has facilitated the acquisition, with Khazan lands protected under Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) rules as No-Development Zones (NDZ).
Recent Gazette Notification:
A new gazette notification has modified proposed land acquisition areas and included tenant names. The association plans to hold a meeting to address the concerns of farmers who could lose their fields under this new notification.
Despite setbacks, the farmers remain committed to their cause and continue to seek justice both legally and through administrative measures.