*http://www.navhindtimes.in/opinion/letters-editor-43* *Need to Save Goa for Future Generations *GOA was loved by tourists because of its scenic beauty, its natural green environment, clean beaches and hospitality of the local Goans. But alas, all this will be gone in a few years. Just look at the pace at which the greenery of Goa is being destroyed. Are the concrete jungles essential? And for whom? Can Goa sustain the influx of heavy-pocketed people from other states? How is the government going to cater to the needs of these people? Think about the amount of garbage that is going to be produced. What are we going to leave our children–polluted air, litter-strewn beaches, unsafe chaotic roads, consistent power shutdowns and restricted water supply? Will they ever be able to visualise a green Goa? How can the government turn a blind eye to the influx of non-Goans? Non-Goans in Goa have outnumbered the Goans and our very identity is at stake. The immigrants have started their own organisations to propagate their language and their culture in Goa. Is parasitism of cultures justifiable? The price of land has gone way beyond the reach of the common man. What is the government doing about all this? I fully agree with Mr Seshagiri Raghu Kumar who voiced his concern for Goa in the letter ‘Save Goa’ (NT, April 29). Goa is not a destination for employment like the metros of India. It is basically a tourist destination and the government should do all it can to save the natural environment of Goa. It should develop policies to safeguard the interest of Goans in the employment sector by reserving 90 per cent quota for Goans before issuing permission for industries, hotels etc. Are any of our Goan leaders listening? More importantly, will they take the necessary action to save Goa? NANDINI VAZ FERNANDES, Margao
-- Please post your comments on my Blog: http://goanidentity.blogspot.com/ Please also see below: 1. Benaulim Village Action Committee: http://www.bvacbenaulim.blogspot.com/ 2. "Rape of Goa" : http://www.parrikar.com/blog/the-rape-of-goa/ 3. MAND - an adivasi-rights resource centre : http://mandgoa.blogspot.com/ 4. EVERY GOAN SHOULD SEE THIS VIDEO: http://infochangeindia.org/Infochange-documentary.html 5. For the Love of Konkani: http://www.radiogoa.net/ 6. Goa's Identity Movement website: http://www.goamag.net/gim 7. Goa's Identity Movement group on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com//#/group.php?gid=193497031686 8. Official Government Site NRI Office (GOA): http://www.globalgoans.org.in/