Lands and Our Future: A Journey from Carmona to Quepem

 Lands and Our Future: A Journey from Carmona to Quepem

By Dr. Sujata Dabolkar

Every day, my journey begins from the serene village of Carmona and takes me through the picturesque landscapes of South Goa, finally reaching Quepem, where I serve as an Assistant Professor at the Government College of Arts, Science, and Commerce. Covering a distance of 21.1 km, this daily route offers a glimpse into Goa’s vibrant rural life, its natural beauty, and the challenges that threaten its delicate balance. It's a Scenic Route Through South Goa’s Heart. The journey unfolds through some of Salcete’s most beautiful villages, each with its own story and charm. Passing through Orlim, I cross the iconic Orlim Bridge over the Sal River, often referred to as the lifeline of Salcete. This river has long supported the fishing communities of the region. From the bridge, one can witness villagers engaged in fish farming, a practice that sustains livelihoods and keeps traditional occupations alive. The St. Michael’s Church, with its Orlim walking lane, is another landmark that adds to the village’s peaceful character. Crossing over into Chinchinim, I am greeted by quaint Goan mansions and colorful cottages, each representing the cultural and architectural heritage of the land. This village captures the essence of a typical Goan lifestyle, where tradition blends seamlessly with the rhythms of daily life. Moving further, Sarzora welcomes travellers with its serene lake and lush green surroundings. The village, nestled among rolling hillocks, offers a peaceful retreat into nature, a stark contrast to the urban expansion creeping into other parts of Goa. This village is village of serenity.

From Sarzora to Paroda, the road is lined with expansive green fields and the distant hills that define Goa’s landscape. However, this pristine beauty is interrupted by industrial activities. The stone crusher quarries, cement block factories, and clay brick manufacturing units contribute to dust pollution, affecting the air quality and posing a threat to both human health and the environment. As I cross the Konkan Railway track, the tunnel on the route serves as a reminder of modern development cutting through nature’s heart. While these industries support economic growth, they also highlight the need for sustainable development to protect Goa’s natural resources. Once inside Paroda, which is the heart of the Goas green belt, the landscape transforms again into lush green paddy fields. Farmers can be seen tending to their crops, maintaining the agrarian tradition of Goa. This village is rich in culture and agriculture. A significant landmark on this route is the Chandreshwar Temple (Chandranath Temple), dedicated to an incarnation of Shiva. Perched atop the Chandranath Parvat, this sacred site has stood the test of time, symbolizing Goa’s deep spiritual and historical roots. 

Another common sight is the women selling fresh, local vegetables such as amaranthus, sweet potatoes, and eggplants along the roadside. These small markets not only provide fresh, organic produce but also reflect the self-sufficiency and resilience of rural Goan communities.

Approaching Quepem, the road becomes slightly wavy and bustling with activity. Small canals run parallel to the road, supporting the region’s agricultural ecosystem. One of Quepem’s notable natural wonders is the Goroginha Tree, a 100-year-old tree near the police station. Locally called "The Monkey Bread Tree," it bears lantern-shaped fruits rich in Vitamin C, known for their medicinal properties. This magnificent tree stands as a testament to Goa’s ecological richness and the need to conserve such treasures.

While this journey showcases the beauty and traditions of Goa, it also highlights the challenges our land faces—urbanization, industrial pollution, and ecological imbalance. The lush fields, pristine rivers, and heritage sites are irreplaceable, and their protection is vital for the future generations.

The need for sustainable development is greater than ever. Policies must balance economic growth with environmental conservation, ensuring that Goa’s land, rivers, and forests remain unspoiled and productive. Local communities, government bodies, and individuals must work together to protect agricultural lands from commercial encroachment. Reduce pollution from industries and promote eco-friendly alternatives. Preserve traditional occupations like farming and fishing. Encourage afforestation and conservation of water bodies.

My daily journey from Carmona to Quepem is more than just a commute—it is a reflection of Goa’s past, present, and future. As we move forward, we must ensure that our land remains a source of life, culture, and sustenance for generations to come.

Our land, our future—let’s protect it together