A meeting with the Chief Minister and the Chief Secretary has failed to satisfy the villagers who are demanding immediate action. A casino, belonging to V M Salgaokar Company, a local company, has also drawn public ire since it wants to acquire a jetty presently owned by River Navigation Department.

According to Fr Eremito Rebello it was not a political battle but an effort to save the river. “There cannot be a casino boat in River Sal”, he said.

Priests from neighbouring villages of Velim and Baradi, alongwith six village panchayats — Cavelossim, Velim, Ambelim, Assolna, Chinchinim and Betul — have announced their support. Centre for Social Justice and Peace, the social organ of the Church, Cavelossim Parish Apostolate Forum, Dr Oscar Rebello, Chairman of the Goa Bachao Abhiyan, Bailancho Saag, Goa Bachav Abhiyan and LokShakti have also extended their support for the movement.