A determined hunger strike by residents of Chimbel village in Goa entered a critical phase this week, drawing strong support from political activists and social workers. The protest, which began on Sunday, targets the state tourism department's planned Unity Mall project, which villagers fear will irreparably damage the local Toyyar Lake ecosystem.
Political and Social Voices Unite in Protest
The protest site saw a significant gathering of concerned citizens and leaders. John Nazareth, the Congress party's Santa Cruz block president, stood alongside former AAP state president Amit Palyekar. They were joined by functionaries from the group Revolutionary Goan and noted social activist Tara Kerkar, all expressing solidarity with the fasting villagers.
Nazareth issued a stark warning about the project's environmental impact. He emphasized that the future of Toyyar Lake hangs in the balance. "Once construction for the mall commences, waste and effluent will inevitably find their way into the lake," he stated. "It will only be a matter of time before this vital water body is severely polluted."
Residents Decry Loss of Natural Heritage and Water Security
The core of the protest revolves around the community's deep connection to their natural resources. Activist Tara Kerkar voiced her frustration over the perceived injustice. "It is deeply upsetting to see that residents are systematically denied access to their own mountains and lakes, while the government is first to claim its share," she said. Kerkar accused the administration of knowingly inflicting pain on the people.
Anna Gracias, a local resident, provided a grim assessment of the existing damage. She reported that the aquifers, which are an integral and life-sustaining part of the lake system, have already been destroyed. Her concerns extend to practical daily survival and environmental stewardship. "Who will take responsibility for keeping the lake clean? We depend on this source for our water. We simply do not need or want another mall here," Gracias asserted, capturing the sentiment of the community fighting for its ecological and hydrological security.
A Standoff With Broader Implications
The ongoing hunger strike in Chimbel highlights a growing tension between development projects and environmental conservation in Goa. The protesters' primary demand is for the government to halt the Unity Mall project, demonstrating no intent to back down. The involvement of figures from across the political spectrum underscores the issue's significance, transforming a local protest into a symbol of the broader struggle for sustainable development and community rights over natural resources in the state.
