PANAJI
North Goa MP and Union Minister of State Shripad Naik on Sunday said the proposed Unity Mall project at Chimbel would be cancelled if it is proven to be detrimental to the environment.
Responding to media queries after villagers staged a protest at his Ribandar residence, Naik stressed that the government was “sensible” and would examine all aspects of the project.
“If the project proves to be really harmful to the environment, then we are also of the opinion that such a project will have to be stopped,” he said.
Naik added that while the mall was conceived for public benefit, consent of the people was crucial. He assured that if villagers’ claims were correct, he would “support them 100%.”
Pointing out that the project is a Central initiative, Naik said he would speak to the Centre and the Chief Minister, urging villagers to allow time for review.
