Opposition parties in Goa are calling for people to participate in a 7 km-long human prayer chain along the banks of the Mandovi river to promote the protection of the river. The Congress, AAP, Trinamool Congress, and Goa Forward parties have all lent their support to the initiative, which is expected to see around 8,000 people participate. Leaders of the different parties have urged their supporters to take part and show unity. The human prayer chain will extend from the end of Miramar Beach to the Santa Monica jetty in Panaji.
The ‘Save Mhadei, Save Goa Front’ initially called for people to participate in the event, which is being organised by the ‘Earthivist Collective’, in conjunction with the ‘Goa Heritage Action Group’ and ‘Save Mhadei Save Goa Front’. The groups are aiming to draw attention to the importance of Mhadei, which is a lifeline for Goa, as it provides water to the state. There is currently a dispute between Goa and Karnataka over the Kalasa-Bhanduri dam project across the river, which is being heard by a central tribunal. Historian Prof Prajal Sakhardande, convener of the campaign, has requested people of the state, NGOs, and politicians to participate in large numbers to raise awareness and pressure the government to act.
