[Goanet] Self Esteem And Life Skills Fun Camp In Saligao
Dear all, Just a reminder... Juliet D'Souza, the counsellor from Bastora will be conducting a *Self Esteem And Life Skills Fun Camp* for 6 to 14 year old children in May. She has volunteered her time and skills free of cost. Details: ~ Age: 6-14 years ~ Dates: 1 to 5 May 2006 ~ Time: 9.30 am to 4.30 pm ~ Venue: Saligao Institute, Arrarim, Saligao. ~ To bring: - Lunch - 11.00 snack - Water - Colour crayons, pencil, plent of newspaper. ~ Joint sessions for parents on certain days, but definitely the last day. ~ Parent participation and assistance is welcome! After Juliet finishes, the camp could extend for a few days more, depending on how many parents volunteer time and effort to run it. Contact Juliet @ [EMAIL PROTECTED] She can only receive, but not send email, at the moment. Warm regards. MM. -- PS: Kindly note our new e-ddress: Muriel Mario [EMAIL PROTECTED] and make the change in your e-ddress book. - MM. . there *is* anOTHERgoa - the destruction of Salmona Spring, for instance! ''' muriel mario, 4/4 tabravaddo, opp. st. anne's chapel, saligao. bardez. goa. 403511. tel: 0832-2278276 / 240 [EMAIL PROTECTED] ''' _ Do not post admin requests to the list. Goanet mailing list (Goanet@goanet.org)
[Goanet] Re: Moira Contraversy...
Dear Goanetters, On Saturday 22 Apr 2006 7:22 pm, [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: From: Vivian D'Souza [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subject: [Goanet] Moira contrversy I read with interest, Floriano's and Olav's reports about the dificulties that a Goan returnee from Canada has been having with his neighbors when trying to run a ceramics business in Moira. As a returnee to Goa myself I will visit Moira and talk to folks around Manuel's home to get an impartial assessment of what is going on. I will report back to this forum. Good idea Vivian... An impartial assessment and fact-finding-mission is the need of the hour. If other impartial, resident netters (especially those in and around Moira) could assist Vivian it would be great. Getting senior and respected investigative journalists like Paul Fernandes (Asst. Editor, Gomantak Times), Frederick Noronha (Freelancer), Sandesh Prabhudesai (Editor, Sunaparant), Vijay D'Souza (Chief Reporter, Herald) and Joaquim Fernandes (Mapusa Bureau Chief, Navhind Times,) to be on the team would also lend credibility to the findings. Copies of documentation from the Small Scale Industry owner as well as the protesting community would go a long way in establishing the truth. Among others the fact-finding-team could meet: - Manuel Caldeira - the owner of the Small Scale Industry (SSI). - Jennifer Mathew Mendes, immediate neighbours who are leading the protests. - Edith Sequeira - another close neighbour. - Sr. Udaya - superior of the convent and formation community, next door. - Vizilia D'Sa, ex-Sarpanch, who conducted an official site inspection during her tenure. - Current and past employees of the SSI. - Nazar D'Silva, Convenor and other members of Moira Civic and Consumer Forum. - Claude Alvares of Goa Foundation for information on Goa State Pollution Control Board. - Anyone else Caldeira and the Mendes' may suggest. A face-to-face meeting with Manuel Caldeira, Jennifer Mathew Mendes, Floriano Lobo, Olav Menezes and Nazar D'Silva in one group, would help greatly in a common acceptance and reporting of the facts on record. We would have loved to have helped but we have our hands full here in Saligao! In solidarity with Vivian's and Goanet's quest for the truth. MM. -- PS: Kindly note our new e-ddress: Muriel Mario [EMAIL PROTECTED] and make the change in your e-ddress book. - MM. . there *is* anOTHERgoa - the destruction of Salmona Spring, for instance! ''' muriel mario, 4/4 tabravaddo, opp. st. anne's chapel, saligao. bardez. goa. 403511. tel: 0832-2278276 / 240 [EMAIL PROTECTED] ''' _ Do not post admin requests to the list. Goanet mailing list (Goanet@goanet.org)
[Goanet] 10-day Vipassana Meditation Course
--- * G * O * A * N * E * T *** C * L * A * S * S * I * F * I * E * D * S * --- USDA certified Goa Sausages and other Goan foods can now be delivered to virtually any part of the world. http://www.goanfoods.com --- Dear Cyber Gaonkars, The Goa Vipassana Samiti (GVS) is organising a 10-day meditation course from the 20-31 May 2006, at Dhammalaya, a full-fledged and well appointed Vipassana Meditation centre in nearby Kolhapur. Public bus transport to and from Kolhapur will be organised by GVS from Panjim and Mapusa. While the course itself is totally free, participants are expected to meet travel costs. Vipassana is a simple practice to maintain regular mental hygiene, by cleaning out the stress and tension, toxins and garbage that is daily generated in ones mind. This practical, purifying technique is also totally rational, scientific and secular. It is not part of any organised religion or sect and can be practised by people of all faiths and backgrounds. Application forms and other details are available at: - Celwyn Electricals, near O Coqueiro Circle in Porvorim. - Siddharth Traders, near Farmacia Joao Menezes in Mapusa. - Varsha Bookstall in Panjim. - Bookmark Bookstore, near Metropole in Margao. - Jetset Hotels Office, 5th floor, Commerce Centre, Dr. Ragendra Prasad Road in Vasco. - Hotel Padmavi in Ponda. - Mrs. Blanche Saldanha, Sonarbhatt. Tel: 2278276. Since seats are limited, applicants will be chosen on a first come first served basis. Goa has quite a few Vipassana meditators with regular group-sittings at different places. There is a 1-day course conducted by an Asst. Teacher every first Sunday, at Apurbai Clinic, S1-101, Nova Cidade, Alto Porvorim, from 9.30 am to 4-30 pm. More info @: http://www.dhamma.org http://www.vri.dhamma.org http://www.pune.dhamma.org Solidarity. MM. -- . there *is* anOTHERgoa - the destruction of Salmona Spring, for instance! ''' muriel mario, 4/4 tabravaddo, opp. st. anne's chapel, saligao. bardez. goa. 403511. tel: 0832-2278276 / 240 [EMAIL PROTECTED] ''' _ Do not post admin requests to the list. Goanet mailing list (Goanet@goanet.org)
[Goanet] *The CLEAN GOA Initiative*
Dear Cybergaonkars, This is the copy of Press Note announcing the programme for Monday, 17 October: PRESS RELEASE `` The Clean Goa Initiative—began with a petition written by two Goans seeking to draw attention at the Central Government level to the waste management crisis in Goa and requesting intervention, beginning with a rational and responsible waste management strategy for IFFI in Panjim this year. The initiative, which also calls for the State government to appoint an independent committee of qualified individuals to identify key problem areas and recommend cost-effective solutions for the State at large, has become a growing proactive people's movement, endorsed by numerous Goa-based NGOs and activists, hundreds of Goans and non-Goan residents of Goa, as well as by a number of film professionals and opinion makers from all over the country who consider Goa a national treasure and want to help. In culmination of the endorsement campaign, there will be a public demonstration of support for the Clean Goa Initiative in Panjim on October 17, 2005. The demonstration will begin with a solidarity march at 5:30 pm from the Panjim Church square to the Mermaid Garden. This campaign event is co-ordinated by Wendell Rodricks, Margaret Mascarenhas, and Ethel Da Costa, along with Goa-based activists and NGOs, in the public interest. It is managed by Think Geek Media and Productions. The theme is Goa Waste Management Issues and Solutions. Speakers at the Mermaid Garden will include Patricia Pinto, Sandesh Prabhudesai, Sanjit Rodrigues, Roland Martins, Wendell Rodricks, Sandeep Jarkis, and others. Chief Minister, Pratapsingh Rane, has been invited to address the public on the issue. A brief Q and A with the press will follow. Citizens and villagers from all over Goa who are concerned and want to be better informed about this issue are encouraged to participate. Those who attend are requested to bring their own food and beverages to the event and to take their garbage away when they leave. (ends) Please be there! MM. -- PS: Kindly note our new e-ddress: Muriel Mario [EMAIL PROTECTED] and make the change in your e-ddress book. - MM. . there *is* anOTHERgoa - the garbage dump perched on a hill overlooking Saligao, for instance! ''' muriel mario, 4/4 tabravaddo, opp. st. anne's chapel, saligao. bardez. goa. 403511. tel: 0832-2278276 / 240 [EMAIL PROTECTED] '''
[Goanet]Thank You...Looking Forward To The Future!
Dear Dr. Willie, The Notification announcing the acquisition of the Salmona Spring area by the government, is published in the Herald today, 1 August 2005. It is an important step in the long struggle to save the last natural heritage spot in the village. It is a battle in which Saligaokars and Goenkars around the world fought hard and consistently for over five months now, a battle that started three years ago in November 2002. But it also a struggle in which you as our MLA have played a significant role and we appreciate the part you played. We would like to thank you for all the time, trouble and effort you have so far put into making the acquisition a reality. We know that you also have the conservation of this ecologically fragile zone, close to your heart. We pledge to work along with you and the government to preserve this entire belt as a protected private forest, conservation zone and bird sanctuary and maintain it in its pristine form. We urge that work on the offending structure stops immediately. The people are willing to demolish it and even collect funds from among themselves to help the government demolish it. Thanks once again for all the hard work you put it. Looking forward towards working together to preserve Salmona for future generations of Saligaokars and Goenkars worldwide. Solidarity. Muriel Mario. -- . there *is* anOTHERgoa - for instance, the structure at Salmona Spring that needs to be demolished SOON! ''' muriel mario, 4/4 tabravaddo, opp. st. anne's chapel, saligao. bardez. goa. 403511. tel: 0832-2278276 / 240 [EMAIL PROTECTED] '''
[Goanet]Governor Visits Salmona Spring In Saligao.
, Governor Visits Salmona Spring In Saligao. Saligao. 18th May 2005. Press Report '' Accepting the invitation of the Salmona Pariyavaran Manch, Saligao Civic Consumer Cell, Nisarga Nature Club and the Saligao Communidade, the Governor of Goa, S C Jamir visited the world famous Salmona Spring in Saligao, on 18th May 2005. The purpose of the visit was to see first hand the destruction being carried out by local builder Arjun Harmalkar with the three storey building he is constructing in this most fragile of ecological enclaves in the village. The Governor was accompanied by various government officials connected with this now infamous case of environmental degradation. Among those present were the Governor's legal advisor, Carlos Alvares Fereira, his Personal Secretary R Raghuraman, his aide-de-camp Manish Sharma and his office secretary Ms. de Sa. The Collector of Goa, Deputy Conservator of Forests, BDO Mapusa, and Saligao Panchayat members were also at the site. The Governor was welcomed by local MLA Dr. Wilfred D'Souza, Brigadier (Retd.) Ian D'Costa and local citizens. Villagers explained to the Governor the four main reasons - among others - why the Saligao Panchayat should never have given permission to the controversial structure in the heart of what is a moist-deciduous forest and Goa's most famous bird sanctuary. The first reason was that the Range Forest Officer had in 2002 prohibited the Panchayat from permitting any construction within a 100 metres of the Salmona Spring. The second was that the Gram Sabha had in February 2003, passed a resolution to maintain the site as a Conservation Zone and world-famous Bird Sanctuary that it had become. This was in order to preserve the unique and fragile ecological balance of coolness provided by the thickly wooded slopes, humidity due to the perennial spring and the rich bio-diversity of flora and fauna of this moist-deciduous forest. The third reason was the letter from the Saligao Panchayat to the Dy. Collector in Mapusa asking him to revoke the Conversion Sanad he had granted to the builder in July 2004. In this letter the Sarpanch pointedly asked the Dy. Collector to revoke the Conversion Sanad based on the above two documents and several memoranda from local and all-Goa NGOs. That letter also pointed out that the then Chief Minister, Forest Minister, local MLA, Chief Conservator of Forests and other officials had opposed any development at the Salmona Spring in view of it being declared a Private Forest in the near future. The fourth reason had to do with stopping the construction work immediately. The Director of Tourism had written to the Saligao Panchayat and various government departments to immediately stop the work as at the moment, proceedings are on to acquire the entire area to preserve it as a conservation zone. The Governor and other officials heard the villagers, promised to give a more detailed hearing to all concerned and take a decision in accordance with the law. In a meeting after the visit, the villagers have decided to stage another peaceful dharna at the Salmona Spring on Saturday, 21st May morning, if no positive decision is taken by the government by Friday, 20th May evening. The villagers however are hopeful that the land will be acquired shortly and the wanton destruction going on at the moment will be immediately stopped. They have new hope that their dream of preserving the Salmona Spring as a Conservation Zone and official Bird Sanctuary will come true, very soon. (Report ends.) -- muriel mario, 4/4 tabravaddo, opp. st. anne's chapel, saligao. bardez. goa. 403511. tel: 0832-2278276 / 240 [EMAIL PROTECTED] '
[Goanet]1089 Salgaokars Petition The Governor
Salmona Pariyavaran Manch (Salmona Environment Forum) c/o Arun Sawant, Near Sharvani Temple, Salmona. Saligao. Bardez. Goa. 403511. 1st April 2005 To, The Governor of Goa, Panaji. Goa. Your Excellency, We the residents of Saligao, would like to preserve the entire Salmona Spring area in our village as a protected forest, bird sanctuary and conservation area. This needs to be done in order to protect the rich biodiversity of this unique bit of natural heritage left to us by our ancestors. To this end the residents have resolved to make the Salmona Spring and its surroundings into a conservation zone, with the following provisions: + No construction. + No tree cutting. + No hunting and killing of wild life. + No garbage dumping and littering. + No street lighting and urban development. + No air and water pollution. + No vehicle washing and similar polluting activities. + An eco-friendly fence around the conservation area. + To prevent pollution, phased out toilet activity on the hill, with immediate installation of Sulabh Souchalayas for each house in the area as well as just outside the fence. + When acquired, the government should preserve it as a protected forest, bird sanctuary and conservation area and not develop it as a tourist spot like our beaches. Thank you. Signed by 1089 villagers. (petition ends) -- muriel mario, 4/4 tabravaddo, opp. st. anne's chapel, saligao. bardez. goa. 403511. tel: 0832-2278276 / 240 [EMAIL PROTECTED] '
[Goanet]Re: A one man crusade by Mario Mascarehans for Salmona!
Dear Gaspar, On Sunday 15 May 2005 3:40 pm, Gaspar Almeida on [EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote: Message: 1 Date: Sat, 14 May 2005 17:35:57 -0400 From: Goa-World.Com [EMAIL PROTECTED] [EMAIL PROTECTED] To: goanet@goanet.org Subject: [Goanet] A one man crusade by Mario Mascarehans for Salmona ! AlmeidaG(ji) http://www.goa-world.com Thanks for your concern and suggestions on how local Saligaokars should be handling the struggle to save the Salmona Spring. We have been working along those lines from the start. If anything else strikes you we would welcome new strategies. But just for the record: * The struggle is led by local Salmona Pariyavaran Manch which represents the entire community around the Salmona Spring. Arun Sawant is its convenor. * The Saligao Civic Consumer Cell (to which we belong) is actively supporting, but *not* leading the struggle. * The struggle has the backing of the entire village except for 8 people - 7 (out of 9) panchas and the builder himself! No one in the village wants the Salmona Spring destroyed by construction there. All may not come out on a morcha or dharna but they are definitely against the present destruction. * At one point, over 200 residents of Salmona and the rest of Saligao held a peaceful dharna at the construction site, took it over and stopped the work temporarily. * Over a 100 local Salmona residents signed a complaint to various authorities about the construction blocking their traditional pathway to the Spring. * 1089 residents of Saligao signed a petition to the Governor demanding that the Salmona Spring area be preserved as a Conservation Zone to protect the local biodiversity there and to maintain it as the world-famous bird sanctuary that it has become (see next message for text of petition). * Our local MLA, Dr. Wilfred De Souza is very involved and is taking a keen, daily interest in the issue. In fact it was he who signed the file for acquisition when he was the Tourism Minister for that short period between the recent fall of governments. To help expedite the matter he urged the usage of Section 17/4 (Urgency clause) of the Land Acquisition Act. * But being a people's movement, a multi-pronged approach is being used without putting all our eggs in one basket. * Many people around Goa and expats around the world are involved in the struggle in various ways. * Except for these personal posts on some Goa-related listservs, most of the struggle is not visible in cyberspace. But for a feel of wider involvement, local, freelance journalist Frederick Noronha's Swiki on the issue can be accessed at: http://salmonafountain.swiki.net * Even though ours may be the only names in cyberspace reporting on the issue, a struggle of this magnitude can never be led and won by A one man crusade by Mario Mascarehans for Salmona!, as you put it. We are but a very tiny part of the entire campaign. There are many others who are part of the effort to save the Salmona Spring. Their time, effort, personal resources and infinite sacrifice should not go unrecognised for want of visibility in cyberspace. In solidarity with and in salutation of *all* those who are part of the struggle to save the Salmona Spring. Muriel Mario. -- muriel mario, 4/4 tabravaddo, opp. st. anne's chapel, saligao. bardez. goa. 403511. tel: 0832-2278276 / 240 [EMAIL PROTECTED] '
[Goanet]Thanks For The Solidarity Protection!
To, The Governor, citizens and netizens of Goa worldwide. Your Excellency and my dear concerned citizens, I am back at home... This is just a short note to thank each of you for the timely intervention, support and solidarity when my wife Muriel and our 8 year old son, was threatened by Arjun Harmalkar, the builder who continues to destroy with his construction work, the fragile ecology of the Conservation Zone at Saligao's, world famous Salmona Spring. A group of Saligaokars from the Salmona Pariyavaran Manch and the Saligao Civic and Consumer Cell accompanied Muriel to the local police station when she went to register her complaint. The Police Inspector in charge of Calangute Police Station promised immediate action. Others phoned or emailed the concerned authorities. Local villagers offered to spend the night at our house. One expat netizen even volunteered to pay for a personal body guard if needed. Our whole family is very touched and deeply appreciates all these gestures of solidarity. It is only with such solidarity and unity that we the local citizens can continue to fight the forces that wittingly or unwittingly are destroying Goa at so many different levels. We are heartened by the fact that your Excellency and certain sections of the bureaucracy and the Police force, are sensitive to the needs, fears, hopes and aspirations of local citizens and the future of Goa. To each of you in Goa and around the globe, many thanks once again from my whole family, for the protection and support afforded them when I was away from home. And of course...immense gratitude from me. Solidarity. Mario Mascarenhas. More information at: http://salmonafountain.swiki.net -- muriel mario, 4/4 tabravaddo, opp. st. anne's chapel, saligao. bardez. goa. 403511. tel: 0832-278276 / 240 [EMAIL PROTECTED] '
[Goanet]Salmona Spring: New Open Update To Governor Of Goa-1.
Date: 29th April'2005 To The Governor of Goa, Panaji. Goa. Your excellency, I am forced to resume our updates on the Salmona Spring, because now it is a matter of life and death. There is a threat to my safety and that of my family, house and property. My husband Mario is away and will not be back for another few days. I am living with 3 old people, (my parents who are 84 and 78 years old, and my father-in-law, also 84) and my 2 young Children aged 10 and 8. As a woman with these old people and children to care for, I am very vulnerable and completely defenceless. It is in these circumstances, with my husband is away, that the builder Arjun Harmalkar who is building the disputed structure at the Salmona Spring has decided to threaten me. On 27th April '05 morning as I was returning from the Saligao market Arjun Harmalkar was descending from the Panchayat Office. He passed me remarking, You can only write to the papers. On the 28th April05 at 6pm as I was walking with my son to Donvaddo in Saligao, Arjun Harmalkar was passing in the opposite direction on his bike. As he was riding his bike he slowed down a little and threatened me saying, Wait, wait, I will show you! Again I walked on without a word to him. This clearly constitutes a threat to my life and property as well as the lives of my family. The contractor Arjun Harmalkar is capable of anything. He has the money at his command to make good his threats. As you know, the whole village is against the destruction his construction has caused the Salmona Spring Conservation Zone, the only heritage spot left in the village. My husband Mario, my children and I have been very involved with the local struggle to save this zone. This has angered Arjun Harmalkar who has now decided to intimidate me with open threats. This of course, is not going to stop us. As with the other public causes and all-Goa issues we have been involved in, WE ARE NOT AFRAID TO DIE TO SAVE THE SALMONA SPRING, SALIGAO AND GOA. But we write to you because Arjun Harmalkar can be stopped from attacking me, my family, my house and property. And he can be stopped by YOU, your Excellency! I am appealing to you, your administration and your Police force for protection. I am appealing to you because Mario, myself and our 2 children have been involved in this struggle to save the Salmona Spring for the sake of Saligao's environment. Our struggle has been in the public interest. In Goa's interest. I am appealing to you because as the Head of State, you have the duty and powers to protect the public interest as well as those who struggle to promote it. Your Excellency, will you protect me, my family, my house and property from the attack by Arjun Harmalkar? Inspite of all your good intentions, and appreciation of our work to save the environment, your efforts to impose a temporary injunction or revoke the construction licence of the building at the Salmona Spring, have so far drawn a blank. The least you can now do is protect the lives of those who have been involved in the struggle to save the Spring. As the Head of State, these powers of protection we are sure you have. We hope you will not hesitate to use them. I have made a Police complaint to the Calangute Police on 29th April'05, with copies to the Dy. SP, SP-North, IGP, Chief Secretary and you. And now, I am making this public appeal to you and all those like minded people who think that Saligao's last heritage spot - the Salmona Spring - be preserved as a Conservation Zone, Bird Sanctuary and Private Forest to protect its unique balance of humidity, temperature and biodiversity. Your Excellency, Arjun Harmalkar lives a mere 200 meters away from our house! He passes my house several times a day. He often passes me and my children on the road. With Mario away, we are without any protection... WILL YOU ENSURE OUR LIVES AND PROPERTY ARE SAFE? Afraid...but ready to die, in case you are unable to protect us. Muriel. muriel mario, 4/4 tabravaddo, opp. st. anne's chapel, saligao. bardez. goa. 403511. tel: 0832-278276 / 240 [EMAIL PROTECTED] '
[Goanet]Salmona Spring: New Open Update To Governor Of Goa-1.
Date: 29th April'2005 To The Governor of Goa, Panaji. Goa. Your excellency, I am forced to resume our updates on the Salmona Spring, because now it is a matter of life and death. There is a threat to my safety and that of my family, house and property. My husband Mario is away and will not be back for another few days. I am living with 3 old people, (my parents who are 84 and 78 years old, and my father-in-law, also 84) and my 2 young children aged 10 and 8. As a woman with these old people and children to care for, I am very vulnerable and completely defenceless. It is in these circumstances, with my husband is away, that the builder Arjun Harmalkar who is building the disputed structure at the Salmona Spring has decided to threaten me. On 27th April '05 morning as I was returning from the Saligao market Arjun Harmalkar was descending from the Panchayat Office. He passed me remarking, You can only write to the papers. On the 28th April05 at 6pm as I was walking with my son to Donvaddo in Saligao, Arjun Harmalkar was passing in the opposite direction on his bike. As he was riding his bike he slowed down a little and threatened me saying, Wait, wait, I will show you! Again I walked on without a word to him. This clearly constitutes a threat to my life and property as well as the lives of my family. The contractor Arjun Harmalkar is capable of anything. He has the money at his command to make good his threats. As you know, the whole village is against the destruction his construction has caused the Salmona Spring Conservation Zone, the only heritage spot left in the village. My husband Mario, my children and I have been very involved with the local struggle to save this zone. This has angered Arjun Harmalkar who has now decided to intimidate me with open threats. This of course, is not going to stop us. As with the other public causes and all-Goa issues we have been involved in, WE ARE NOT AFRAID TO DIE TO SAVE THE SALMONA SPRING, SALIGAO AND GOA. But we write to you because Arjun Harmalkar can be stopped from attacking me, my family, my house and property. And he can be stopped by YOU, your Excellency! I am appealing to you, your administration and your Police force for protection. I am appealing to you because Mario, myself and our 2 children have been involved in this struggle to save the Salmona Spring for the sake of Saligao's environment. Our struggle has been in the public interest. In Goa's interest. I am appealing to you because as the Head of State, you have the duty and powers to protect the public interest as well as those who struggle to promote it. Your Excellency, will you protect me, my family, my house and property from the attack by Arjun Harmalkar? Inspite of all your good intentions, and appreciation of our work to save the environment, your efforts to impose a temporary injunction or revoke the construction licence of the building at the Salmona Spring, have so far drawn a blank. The least you can now do is protect the lives of those who have been involved in the struggle to save the Spring. As the Head of State, these powers of protection we are sure you have. We hope you will not hesitate to use them. I have made a Police complaint to the Calangute Police on 29th April'05, with copies to the Dy. SP, SP-North, IGP, Chief Secretary and you. And now, I am making this public appeal to you and all those like minded people who think that Saligao's last heritage spot - the Salmona Spring - be preserved as a Conservation Zone, Bird Sanctuary and Private Forest to protect its unique balance of humidity, temperature and biodiversity. Your Excellency, Arjun Harmalkar lives a mere 200 meters away from our house! He passes my house several times a day. He often passes me and my children on the road. With Mario away, we are without any protection... WILL YOU ENSURE OUR LIVES AND PROPERTY ARE SAFE? Afraid...but ready to die, in case you are unable to protect us. Muriel. muriel mario, 4/4 tabravaddo, opp. st. anne's chapel, saligao. bardez. goa. 403511. tel: 0832-278276 / 240 [EMAIL PROTECTED] '
[Goanet]Salmona Spring: LAST Open Update To Governor Of Goa!.
To, The Governor of Goa, Panaji. Goa. Your Excellency, As you know, this last update is needless. But for the records, we must go through the formal, last rites of a painful process of updating. Yes, your Excellency, it is painful we know - both for you and for us. The bitter taste of defeat is not pleasant. After the 3 delegations to you with its files full of documents. After the 1089 Saligaokar signatures to save their world-famous Salmona Spring, addressed exclusively to your Excellency. After the deep concern, interest and shock you expressed over the ongoing devastation of the Conservation Zone at the Salmona Spring. After the promises you made to impose an injunction and have the licence revoked. And finally after the Executive Order you signed on the 13th of April to have the construction licence revoked immediately, based on the Forest Act. After 6 weeks of whirlwinding around the corridors of power, Arjun Harmalkar continues to build arrogantly and at a furious pace, mocking yours and our efforts. At the end of the day, all this immense effort - most sadly, including yours - could not translate into the political, administrative and judicial will to stop the construction. But while we wonder why, we have not lost hope. The acquisition proceedings are almost complete. But even this process is dogged by trickery. The file, at the moment is mysteriously 'stuck' at the office of the Under Secretary - Revenue Department for the last 5 days! It reached his desk on the evening of the 18th April. Since you could not help out with the injunction on construction and revocation of licence, could you at least expedite the passage of this file to your office? You are the last Executive authority to sign this file, your Excellency, before it is notified in the Gazette. Someone wants this file to crawl to you instead of fly. We are sure that you at least the powers to increase the speed of this file as it drags itself to your office. In order for you to direct your efforts at the right desks, this is the route it will take until it reaches you: From the Under Secretary - Revenue, to Joint Secretary - Revenue, to Secretary - Revenue, to Chief Secretary, to your good self the Governor of Goa. Since you failed us in your efforts to impose a temporary injunction on the construction and to revoke the licence, you can at least make an earnest attempt to hasten the acquisition proceedings, get them notified, take over the land and DEMOLISH THE DESTRUCTIVE STRUCTURE, AT THE EARLIEST. This we know is within your powers, because the file creaking is its way to you. All you have to do is make it fly! In the light of our experience over the last 6 weeks, all we can do is hope for the best... Hopefully, Muriel Mario. More information at: http://salmonafountain.swiki.net -- muriel mario, 4/4 tabravaddo, opp. st. anne's chapel, saligao. bardez. goa. 403511. tel: 0832-278276 / 240 [EMAIL PROTECTED] '
[Goanet]Salmona Spring: Open Update To Governor Of Goa - 5.
Tuesday, 12 April 2005. To, The Governor of Goa, Panaji. Goa. Your Excellency, Today we will just update you on what other Saligaokars around the world are saying about our Salmona Spring and the government's lethargy in saving it. Here are excerpts from one reaction: If this area belongs to Saligao, it has been since time immemorial, then it is in our interests to preserve the forest area and environment which was why the Dharna was held. ...the Spring lives as such it should continue to live. At least those Saligaokars physically involved there (as opposed to the rest of us abroad) are really trying hard to keep what is there of the Spring I applaud them but the fact remains we should keep in sight - no development (whether concrete or tourism) on all fronts, just restore to original by clearing away the litter/debris try to prevent the garbage (another issue) from the top of the hill polluting the area the water of the Spring. Next thought ... construction work, buildings, what comes afterpeople, garbage etc. ... what a contradiction! On the one hand opposing (do I recall that it was 100 Saligaokars?) development of the area as a tourist spot, on the other- permitting construction work on land near the Spring. I recall Kevin saying that one building in that area will not make the birds at the fountain extinct ...but what of the precedent that it will create, and then there are bound to be others who would be emboldened to pursue one or more of their own even more ambitious projects,( maybe permission is granted once again), inviting a vicious cycle which would then be difficult to contain. Hence the Dharna in same way the opposition of the area being developed into a tourist spot. Tourist/tourism draws up pictures of hordes of people with their litter flocking to the Spring, but we dont want that, we want only the original living things there, dont we? A bit difficult to envisage from the way things are unfolding over the last couple of months, I guess. Isnt there a middle path then? It is all in the hands of our Saligaokars some of whom make up our Panchayat. For me, conservation, preservation mean keep safe, keep from harm, retain, maintain, keep alive - all this applies to what Saligaokars want vis-a-vis the Spring - it was there, it is there it should be there hereafter - there is no room for acquisition, construction, development, etc. Let the Spring alone - to be frequented by Saligaokars, young old whether to drink the water or bathe in it or just to sit watch nature whatever inhabitants choose to live amongst leaves, trees without any concrete being introduced in the area. - Annette D'Souza. Pictures of the area some days ago are here: http://www.kodakgallery.com/I.jsp?c=psaix6r.x7lyx27x=0y=-tiofkq Now there is the first floor slab up and it looks even more hideous. When are you deciding to act, Your excellency? Your concern and determination to act decisively came across as genuine. So what or who is keeping you back? The local Saligao and global Goan community that is viewing the verbal and digital pictures of the slow murder of a unique heritage spot, is watching and waiting for you to act. The choice before you is clear: TEMPORARY INJUCNTION or PERMANENT REVOCATION OF THE CONSTRUCTION LICENCE, till the acquisition proceedings and investigations into the Saligao Panchayat's conduct are completed. We have a simple demand: ACT NOW - before the people decide to! More information at: http://salmonafountain.swiki.net Muriel Mario. -- muriel mario, 4/4 tabravaddo, opp. st. anne's chapel, saligao. bardez. goa. 403511. tel: 0832-278276 / 240 [EMAIL PROTECTED] '
[Goanet]Salmona Spring: Call The Goa Guv Others.
Dear netters, Some have requested for the numbers of the Governor of Goa and others, to phone to and urge speedy government action at the Salmona Spring. Here are some you can call: - S C Jamir - Governor of Goa (concentrate efforts here): Raj Bhavan - 0091.832.2453501 Fax 0091.832.245 3511 Secretariat (office hours) - 0091.832.2224801. Ask why the government still has no political, judicial and administrative will to impose a temporary injuction or revocation of licence. -- - Elvis Gomes - Director of Tourism Off- 0091.832.2438751 / 0091.832.2438750 / Cell-9822388099 He will have the latest on the acquisition proceedings. Very importantly, ask if the URGENCY CLAUSE - 17/4 of the Land Acquisition Act has been applied and what will happen to the structure after the land is acquired. -- - Rajiv Yaduvanshi - Under Secretary of Panchayats (concentrate efforts here): Off - 0091.832.2419423 / Cell-9822104962 He will know if the government has the political, judicial and administrative will to impose a temporary injunction or revocation of licence. -- Hope the phone campaign works! Solidarity. MM. -- muriel mario, 4/4 tabravaddo, opp. st. anne's chapel, saligao. bardez. goa. 403511. tel: 0832-278276 / 240 [EMAIL PROTECTED] '
[Goanet]Salmona Spring: Open Update To Governor Of Goa - 4.
promises. If the government cannot find the will to act in time, the people will - again. We sincerely hope the government wins the race this time. Hoping for some intervention on Tuesday, 12 April. Expectantly. Muriel Mario. -- muriel mario, 4/4 tabravaddo, opp. st. anne's chapel, saligao. bardez. goa. 403511. tel: 0832-278276 / 240 [EMAIL PROTECTED] '
[Goanet]Salmona Spring: Open Update To Governor Of Goa - 3.
Sunday, 10 April 2005. To, The Governor of Goa, Panaji. Goa. Your Excellency, The construction is still on...and going full steam ahead. The construction, which is the beginning of the destruction of the Salmona Spring Conservation Zone has still not been stopped by you. You have the powers to impose a temporary injunction through an Executive Order, Mr. Jamir. We appeal to you, yet again, to use them. The Director of Panchayats also has the powers. The Dy. Collector (North) also has the powers. The Mamlatdar also has the powers. The Block Development Officer also has the powers. All are Judicial Officers. And the Saligao Panchayat also has the powers to revoke the construction licence. But alas...political, administrative and judicial will is lacking to temporarily stop the construction. Right now, it is the will of corruption that powers the construction and destruction at Salmona. Ironically, the people of Saligao who do not have any judicial powers vested in them, stopped the construction once. They took over the site and held a peaceful 'dharna' there on 25 March 2005. Because it could become a law and order situation, the Calangute Police had to call in the Mamlatdar of Bardez to put a temporary halt to the construction, pending the revocation and acquisition. But because corrupt, vested interests at the lower levels of your bureaucracy were stalling the revocation and acquisition, the construction has started again - with a vengence and arrogance that comes from raw, money power. Does your bureaucracy have the judicial and administrative will to temporarily stop the construction? Do the people of Saligao need to come out again to peacefully stop it? They will, if no action is forthcoming from the government to stop the wanton destruction of the only natural heritage spot they have left. We await your immediate intervention, NOW, on site. Hopefully, Muriel Mario. -- muriel mario, 4/4 tabravaddo, opp. st. anne's chapel, saligao. bardez. goa. 403511. tel: 0832-278276 / 240 [EMAIL PROTECTED] '
[Goanet]Salmona Spring: Open Update To Governor Of Goa - 2.
Saturday, 9 April 2005. To, The Governor of Goa, Panaji. Goa. Your Excellency, We waited the whole day today for some action from you, the Chief Secretary, Secretary/Under Secretary of Panchayats, Director of Panchayats, Mamlatdar, BDO...but none came. We are getting the same old news: everyone is concerned; all the different Heads Of Departments are having meetings; everyone is consulting the Law Secretary or the Legal Department to ensure that they are covered; everyone suddenly wants to follow the letter of the law, completely forgetting the spirit of the law. All this while the Salmona Spring area, the conservation zone, the natural bird sanctuary and its biodiversity are up in flames. While Salmona burns, your bureaucracy is researching procedures to find out if it is legal enough to rush in the Fire Brigade! Your excellency, the fire first needs to be extinguished! The rest can wait... The construction going on in this tiny, fragile eco-system called the Salmona Spring needs to be stopped NOW. This is going on from the 15 March 2005, for the last 25 days. On 3 different occasions in the last 3 weeks, you have met delegations comprising of villagers of Saligao, local and state NGOs. Every time you express deep anguish at the destruction of the Salmona Spring and great appreciation for the commitment of those involved in the struggle. But till today, the construction is on, each day with increased fury. We need action on site, Your Excellency! WE NEED AT LEAST A TEMPORARY INJUNCTION ON THE CONSTRUCTION. Your departments know the steps: First stop the work temporarily. Second, investigate. Third, revoke the licence and simultaneously...finish acquisition applying the Urgency Clause (17/4) of the Land Acquisition Act. It is so simple...even to us common, unsophisticated, village folk. And you have the powers to do it - a simple Executive Order from you to temporarily stop the work, pending the enquiry or the acquisition - whichever finishes earlier. Give us action on site for a change, Your Excellency. We know you have the powers to do it. Even on a Sunday! The pulse of Saligao on this sensitive issue is available at: http://salmonafountain.swiki.net and on the archives of Saligaonet. We hope you will keep your word - given to us 3 times - and act before it is too late. Thank you. Muriel Mario. -- muriel mario, 4/4 tabravaddo, opp. st. anne's chapel, saligao. bardez. goa. 403511. tel: 0832-278276 / 240 [EMAIL PROTECTED]
[Goanet]Salmona Spring: Open Update To Governor Of Goa - 1.
To, The Governor of Goa, Panaji. Goa. Your Excellency, Thank you for your promise of immediate help, *for a second time,* to stop the construction at the Salmona Spring in Saligao. The first time the file we gave you went via this route: - from you to the Chief Secretary with a note to investigate and revoke the licence. - from the Chief Secretary to the Under Secretary of Panchayats. - from the the Under Secretary of Panchayats to the Law Secretary for a legal opinion. - from the Law Secretary back to the Under Secretary of Panchayats. - from the Under Secretary of Panchayats to the Director of Panchayats. - from the Director of Panchayats office to the Legal Dept. - from the Legal Dept. back to the Director of Panchayats office. Since the Director of Panchayats is away in Chennai, and the Dy. Director of Panchayats post is vacant (after the last incumbent retired), *the file has now got 'stuck' with an official named Mr. Arlekar who is deputising for the 2 heads of department. Our information is that if the file is not excavated from under the pile on Mr. Arlekar's table, it will die a natural death.* We appeal to you to please prevent such an untimely end to the hard work that this file represents. Last morning, after giving you a second file with a memorandum signed by 1089 villagers, you promised yet again, to take immediate and strong action...but so far, the people of Saligao are very upset to note that nothing has happened on site. In fact the construction continues with arrogance and at a furious pace. Tomorrow the slab for the first floor is ready to be cast. We still await some action from you: either an injunction pending acquisition/enquiry into the suspicious way in which the Saligao Panchayat has issued this licence or a direct revocation of licence. An investigation by the Vigilance Department into the suspicious functioning of the Saligao Panchayat would also be in order. The villagers badly need such relief. You could simultaneously expedite your Government's acquisition of the entire area. That process is also 'stuck' with the Revenue dept. The pulse of Saligao on this sensitive issue is available at: http://salmonafountain.swiki.net We hope you will keep your word and act before it is too late. Thank you. Muriel Mario. -- muriel mario, 4/4 tabravaddo, opp. st. anne's chapel, saligao. bardez. goa. 403511. tel: 0832-278276 / 240 [EMAIL PROTECTED] '
[Goanet]Correction: Salmona Spring Swiki...
Dear Netters, We made a mistake with the Swiki site for the Salmona Spring. The correct URL is: http://salmonafountain.swiki.net Apologies for error. Solidarity. MM. -- muriel mario, 4/4 tabravaddo, opp. st. anne's chapel, saligao. bardez. goa. 403511. tel: 0832-278276 / 240 [EMAIL PROTECTED] '
[Goanet]Salmona Spring: At The Press Conference...
Dear Netters, The Salmona Pariyavaran Manch and Saligao Civic Consumer Cell held a Press Conference this evening. Arun Sawant and Ms. Malvi Tayaji, Convenor and active member of the Manch respectively, Nicholas Sequeira and Mario Mascarenhas of the Saligao Civic Consumer Cell addressed the Press. But the highlight of the Conference was the presence of 2 expat Saligaokars from the US - Maurice Britto (Budza) and Chris De Souza - who talked about what the spring meant to them as they grew up as children in the village and what it means to see the present wanton destruction of a childhood haven. It is great to have them fighting shoulder to shoulder with us at ground zero. While Chris is down for only a week and made the time to attend the event, Maurice is in Goa on an extended stay and is very active with the local movement. This is truly turning out to be the struggle of Saligaokars - worldwide. Besides the text of the memorandum to the Governor and a brief history of the Salmona Spring struggle, the following document was also handed out: Salmona Pariyavaran Manch Saligao Civic Consumer Cell Press Conference Handout at T B Cunha Hall, Panjim. 8 April 2005. Why the Tourism Dept. is acquiring the Salmona Spring? Initially, the Forest Dept. was supposed to acquire it, but because of a lack of funds, the Govt. has asked the Tourism Dept. to pay for the acquisition and then hand it over to the Forest Dept. to plant trees and maintain the local biodiversity of the area. The Tourism Dept. has no intentions of developing it into a Tourist spot. This assurance has given to us by the Tourism Dept. itself, the previous CM Manohar Parrikar (who first started acquisition proceedings) and the recent Tourism Minister and MLA of Saligao, Dr. Wilfred De Souza. These authorities have also assured us that the area will be maintained as a conservation zone with its present biodiversity of flora, fauna and bird life and that no development of the area will take place. What Saligaokars hope to do with the area after acquisition: The Salmona Spring is the only natural heritage spot left in the village. It is world famous because it is on every bird-watching website in the world. Migratory birds coming here are not sited elsewhere in Goa. The villagers hope to work closely with the Forest Dept. to plant the same species of trees found in the area, in order to maintain the local biodiversity of flora and fauna. They will work with the Forest Dept. and other environmental NGOs in the state like Nisarga Nature Club, Little Tree, Southern Birdwing, Green Cross, Goa Foundation, Creepy Times to maintain the area as a conservation zone where the animal, bird, snake, reptile and insect life of the area will be protected to preserve and enhance the natural biodiversity of the area. As planned by the ex-Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar, the villagers hope to ask the Govt. to pump the water from the spring up to a reservoir on the hill, to then flow down by gravity to the homes of the Salmona residents. Sulabh Souchalayas are hoped to be built outside of the fenced area to help out with the toilet needs of the local community and visitors alike. Where the Government procedures stand at this moment: One file is with the Under Secretary, Panchayats, and the Director of Panchayats who are working on an injunction on the construction and revocation of the licence erroneously given by the Saligao Panchayat. At the same time acquisition proceedings are on, with the Govt. applying section 4 and section 17/4 (urgency clause) of the Land Acquisition Act, to acquire the whole Salmona Spring area as soon as possible. Details are available with the Director of Tourism, Under Secretary, Panchayats and Under Secretary, Revenue. (Ends) We are hoping all this effort pays off! Solidarity. MM. Salmona Spring: The whole story @ http://salmonaspring.swiki.net -- muriel mario, 4/4 tabravaddo, opp. st. anne's chapel, saligao. bardez. goa. 403511. tel: 0832-278276 / 240 [EMAIL PROTECTED] '
[Goanet]To The Governor: Save The Salmona Spring In Saligao1
Dear Netters, Led by an advisor to the Governor of Goa, Brig (retd.) Ian D'Costa, a representative each of the Salmona Pariyavaran Manch and Saligao Civic and Consumer Cell met the Governor this morning (7 April 2005). The delegation handed over a memorandum signed by 1089 villagers of Saligao, petitioning the Governor to save their world-famous Salmona Spring from construction and destruction. The trio also updated the Governor on the latest situation in Salmona and urged him to intervene urgently as construction was on at tremendous speed, even as the villagers' tempers were rising equally fast. The Governor promised to act immediately and hopefully Saligaokars can soon hope for an injuction on the destructive construction or a permanent revocation of licence. Text of the petition follows: Salmona Pariyavaran Manch (Salmona Environment Forum) c/o Arun Sawant, Near Sharvani Temple, Salmona. Saligao. Bardez. Goa. 403511. 1st April 2005 To, The Governor of Goa, Panaji. Goa. Your Excellency, We the residents of Saligao, would like to preserve the entire Salmona Spring area in our village as a protected forest, bird sanctuary and conservation area. This needs to be done in order to protect the rich biodiversity of this unique bit of natural heritage left to us by our ancestors. To this end the residents have resolved to make the Salmona Spring and its surroundings into a conservation zone, with the following provisions: No construction. No tree cutting. No hunting and killing of wild life. No garbage dumping and littering. No street lighting and urban development. No air and water pollution. No vehicle washing and similar polluting activities. An eco-friendly fence around the conservation area. To prevent pollution, phased out toilet activity on the hill, with immediate installation of Sulabh Souchalayas for each house in the area as well as just outside the fence. When acquired, the government should preserve it as a protected forest, bird sanctuary and conservation area and not develop it as a tourist spot like our beaches. Thank you. Signed by 1089 Saligaokars. -- muriel mario, 4/4 tabravaddo, opp. st. anne's chapel, saligao. bardez. goa. 403511. tel: 0832-278276 / 240 [EMAIL PROTECTED] '
[Goanet]Solidarity Alert: TO ALL THOSE WHO NORMALLY EAT FISH
Dear Netters, This message is from Fr. Xavier Pinto, a Redemptorist priest we know personally. He is Secretary to the Commission For Labour, Catholic Bishops Conference Of India (CBCI). Normally based in Delhi, Fr. Xavier travels widely to help organise the fishing community around the globe. At present he is in coastal South India, helping the Tsunami-hit fishing communities there. In solidarity with our Tsunami-hit brothers and sisters everywhere. Muriel Mario. --- Message from Fr. Xavier Pinto: IN SOLIDARITY WITH TSUNAMI VICTIMS IN SOUTH ASIA Please send this to all your friends in this part of the world TO ALL THOSE WHO NORMALLY EAT FISH: Please consider the following... There is a campaign going on regarding those lost at sea as being devoured by the fish. There is another campaign going on about so many dead fish on the shores of other countries so don't eat fish for some time! This campaign is detrimental to the very livelihood of the people you wish to reach out to in the Tsunami 2004 South Asia disaster Fishing activities in the south of India and in Sri Lanka have been in suspension over the past two weeks. All missing persons at sea have been in that region. The fish coming to your town is from elsewhere and may be from cold storage's. Karnataka and Maharashtra have good storage facilities. Only the following fish feed on alien or human flesh= Scavenger fish, killer whales and killer sharks. These three varieties are not edible varieties like so many varieties in your home aquarium; these are not sold in the markets and do not reach you table. Besides all fish only feed on their own kind, apart from the normal nutrients in the ocean. Dead fish on the shores of other countries do not affect the fish that is being sold in India and Sri Lanka these days. If you have stopped eating fish these days may be you need not contribute to any Tsunami fund at all. In that case praying for them too is rather useless! On the one hand you contribute from your pocket to save the fishing community. You feel good about this. On the other you do not want their economy to roll. You also obstruct other fishing communities contribute to building up the affected of their own kind in the south of India and Sri Lanka . If you don't eat fish, fishing communities work to get for you, you may be in the category of those who are building up forces for an economic 'tsunami' that will lead to their condemnation and slow death. I'm sure you do not want this to happen. Do not let you contributions and prayers go in vain. Just keep eating fish and you will bring our fishing communities to life again !! Thank you so much on behalf of the beleaguered and traumatised fishing communities of south India and Sri Lanka. PLEASE SPREAD THIS WORD AND MESSAGE - Even if you are not a fish eater! Issued in the interest of fishing communities South Asia by: Fr. Xavier Pinto, C.Ss.R. South Asia Co-ordinator for the Apostleship of the Sea, Member - International Fishing Committee, Vatican City. 876, Alto Porvorim. Goa. 403521. India [EMAIL PROTECTED] vati047 [EMAIL PROTECTED] (message ends) -- muriel mario, 4/4 tabravaddo, opp. st. anne's chapel, saligao. bardez. goa. 403511. tel: 0832-278276 / 240 [EMAIL PROTECTED] '
