PANAJI: Tension was reported in Chimbel after residents gathered to protest the alleged obstruction of a traditional route leading to Toyyar Lake, claiming that the closure has restricted public access to the important local water body.
Residents and activists also raised concerns about construction and development activity in the vicinity, saying it could affect the lake’s drainage pattern and the surrounding environment.
Environmental activist and Chimbel tribal leader Govind Shirodkar said Toyyar Lake is important for local biodiversity and water needs. He alleged that the traditional route, reportedly used by residents for decades, was blocked following construction-related activity.
According to Shirodkar, the route was used by residents, students, researchers and water tankers. He claimed that stones, laterite blocks and construction debris had been placed along the pathway, making access difficult.
He further alleged that work associated with a BJP office in the vicinity had resulted in the main access route to the notified lake being blocked.
The police presence at the protest also became a point of discussion, with residents questioning the deployment of two large police buses and a sizeable contingent at the site. Videos and photographs of the security arrangements later circulated on social media.
The latest protest comes amid earlier opposition from some Chimbel residents to the proposed Unity Mall project, with concerns previously raised over drainage and environmental impact.
Residents are now demanding restoration of the traditional route and have urged authorities to ensure that development activity does not affect public access, the lake’s drainage system or the surrounding ecosystem.
