Allegations of large-scale mangrove
destruction along the Moira riverbank have prompted the Goa Coastal
Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) to carry out a fresh site
inspection following a complaint by environmental activist Dr Nerissa
Miranda and local residents.
The inspection was conducted by
GCZMA Expert Member Harshada Gauns, Engineer Bhargavi Kelkar, and
Field Surveyor Siddhi Morajkar in the presence of Dr Miranda and
other environmental activists.
At the site, Dr Nerissa Miranda
said she had witnessed ongoing mangrove cutting and called for urgent
protection of coastal ecosystems, stating that the damage to mature
mangroves cannot be quickly reversed.
"I have seen
mangrove cutting taking place. We may not know who is responsible,
but what remains must be protected," she said. "Replantation
will take decades to show results. What is lost today cannot be
immediately restored."
She urged people to report illegal
environmental activities, warning that silence allows destruction to
continue unchecked.
"If you see such activities, report
them to the authorities. Many remain silent thinking it is not their
concern, but when flooding happens, it becomes everyone’s problem,"
Dr Miranda said. "If illegal logging is happening and you stay
quiet, you are equally responsible."
Goa Green Brigade
Convenor Avertino Miranda said the inspection confirmed extensive
damage to mature mangroves along the riverbank.
"What we
have seen is large-scale destruction of mangroves. This is
irreversible environmental damage," he said, noting that
mangroves are vital breeding and nesting grounds for several species
of wildlife.
He further warned that mangroves act as a natural
shield against flooding and their removal increases vulnerability
during heavy rains.
"Once mangroves are gone, rainwater
will enter the area, putting human lives at risk. Residents are
exposed to flooding threats," he said.
Calling for strict
action, Avertino Miranda said those responsible must be identified
and held accountable.
"The culprits must be booked
immediately. Whoever is in possession of the property must be held
responsible," he added.
