Comprehensive Survey Conducted for Toyyar Lake Wetland; Government Projects to be Relocated.

Panjim:Following the meeting of Chimbel villagers with the Hon’ble Chief Minister on 21st January, directions were issued to undertake a comprehensive mapping of the Toyyar Lake wetland and its zone of influence.Accordingly, a detailed survey exercise was carried out from 23rd January to 28th January 2026. The survey was conducted in the presence of village representatives along with their expert members, advocate, hydrologist and architect. Officials and experts from CSIR–National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), the Wetland Authority, DSLR, and the Department of Tourism also participated in the exercise.During the survey, extensive ground-truthing was undertaken to accurately demarcate the catchment area, drainage lines, surface and sub-surface water flows, vegetation cover, agricultural areas, and natural springs*, as highlighted by the villagers. The survey team traversed the entire boundary of the catchment area, inspected all water sources and drainage points identified by the villagers, and mapped the inlet points of the lake, high-water and low-water lines**, and the **earthen bund of Toyyar Lake.In addition to physical verification on site, high-definition drone surveys** were used to study land contours and hydrological patterns for greater accuracy.Upon completion of the exercise, the **draft survey report along with detailed maps was shared with the villagers and their advocate. The findings clearly established that the proposed sites for the Unity Mall and Prashasan Sthamb fall outside both the zone of influence of the Toyyar wetland and the catchment area, including the catchment mapped by experts engaged by the villagers themselves.While the proposed project site lies within a settlement zone adjoining the National Highway*, the Government has taken note of the sentiments and concerns expressed by sections of the local community. In view of these considerations, it has been decided to relocate both Government projects to an alternative site.Issued by the Department of Tourism*