Thousands of indigenous people and a large variety of wildlife including tigers, leopards, gaurs, and over 200 species of birds in the Mollem Forest are going to be impacted given the three infrastructural development projects – a highway expansion, double-tracking of SW railway line, and a power transmission line – which can cause the felling of over 30,000 trees, harming the rich ecosystem of the area.
For instance, the 400 kv power transmission line from Goa to Karnataka which is being built by the Goa Tamnar Transmission Project Ltd. will result in the felling of 5000 trees and pose a threat to the 43 species of mammals and 250 species of birds living in the area where the line is supposed to pass from. Moreover, large mammals will be at risk of getting electrocuted by sagging wires while passing by.
ALSO READ: Income Tax Officials Record Robert Vadra’s Statement In Benami Property Case
Considering the fact that the projects have been planned in an eco-sensitive zone, many people have come together to launch the ‘Save Mollem’ campaign. The campaign has attracted the attention of various public figures ranging from celebrities to politicians. Many of them have also expressed outrage towards the planning of these projects on a green cover.
However, the Supreme Court’s Central Empowered Committee on December 16 said that it will carry out site inspections in Goa for all three projects. This was announced after the court received several complaints stating that the projects were approved without proper threat assessment. The court’s decision has come as a ray of hope for those who are taking a stand for saving the Mollen Forest.