Chorao unfurls ‘not for sale’ banners

Chorao: The prospects of mega projects on Chorao island are stirring a flutter of resistance in the idyll — in the form of banners proclaiming sentiments such as ‘Welcome to Chorao, Our Island Not for Sale’.

The islanders’ messages unfurl at the jetty entrance as an advisory to any entrant bringing in project ideas. ‘Save Chorao, Say No to Mega Projects’, declares one banner at the jetty.

A petition demanding a special gram sabha at Chodan-Madel on the brewing talk of developments has garnered nearly 1,000 signatures. Residents allege that unauthorised developments are under way and have called for a discussion to pass a resolution on the construction of any project on the island.

The islanders intend to grant exceptions for personal single-unit dwellings for locals and those who are members of the gram sabha.

Eusebio D’Silva, a local, alleged that khazans in the Kerem area of the island were being targeted for the construction of “floating villas and water sports activities.” He alleged that the project developer has blocked the natural flow of saline water through mangrove areas, threatening the delicate ecosystem and biodiversity. He said such projects and activities would disturb not only the locals but the entire ecosystem, including the unique biodiversity of Chorao.

“Fortunately the area in question is not yet converted by the TCP. Taking this point, we will approach the authorities concerned with a plea to protect our ecologically fragile island from destruction,” D’Silva said.

“We are determined to protect our island and its identity from large-scale projects.”

Ashwin Chodankar, another resident, alleged that the same developer illegally constructed a jetty for a luxury yacht without obtaining permissions. “A proper road is one of the mandatory requirements before issuing permission for the construction of a jetty. The jetty has no access road. An area of the bundh is being utilised as a road,” Chodankar said. “This is illegal and the permission granted to him by the authorities concerned needs to be revoked.”

Chodankar added that the islanders would resolutely oppose mega projects.

Chodan-Madel sarpanch Silvano Pereira said the panchayat has not received any formal applications for mega projects. “The issue is being raised as villagers have come across some advertisement. We haven’t received any application from any developer,” he said.

Pereira also said he would seek legal advice before deciding on the islanders’ request for a special gram sabha.