Villagers in Lamgao and Bicholim Protest Trench Digging Through Farmland
Residents of Lamgao and Bicholim have voiced strong opposition to the digging of a trench through agricultural land, suspecting it is intended for laying 33kV underground electricity cables. The trench, which cuts across survey numbers 102, 104, and 105 in Bicholim, as well as survey numbers 40 and 41 in Lamgao, has raised serious safety concerns among the local community.
Safety Risks from Groundwater
Villagers fear that the presence of groundwater in the trench, even during the dry season, could pose a significant risk to both humans and animals if the underground cabling project proceeds. They argue that the trench should have been dug along a road rather than through farmland, to minimize environmental impact and safety hazards.
Lack of Transparency
The Bicholim subdivision electricity department initiated the trenching work without providing clear information to the villagers about its purpose. Local residents claim they have been kept in the dark regarding the details of the project. Social activist Sachin Mayekar, based in Lamgao, submitted a letter on June 5 to the electricity department's public information officer, requesting details about the project and its objectives.
Demand for Official Documents
Villagers are demanding to know whether any formal proposal has been approved for laying underground cables in the area. They have asked for copies of the approved project proposal, administrative approval, and technical sanction. The community insists that the electricity department address all technical and safety concerns to ensure the work does not endanger humans, animals, or the surrounding environment.
In addition, locals have urged the authorities to halt the trenching until all safety measures are verified. The incident has sparked a broader debate about the need for transparent communication between government departments and local communities when undertaking infrastructure projects.
