File photo of Ratwaddo-Navelim residents participating in the February 21 site inspection.
MARGAO
Residents of Ratwaddo ward in Navelim had been waging a battle against the proposed housing project, citing multiple concerns including the absence of a six-metre access road, the low-lying nature of the land, and its role as a water catchment area.
Their claims gained significant traction following a site inspection conducted by the Navelim Panchayat on February 21. The inspection reportedly confirmed that the mandatory six-metre-wide access road to the project site does not exist on the ground. Additionally, the site was found to be located in a low-lying area, raising further doubts about the feasibility and sustainability of the development.
Sarpanch Paul Pereira, who was part of the inspection team, had then told the media that the road in question was not found during the visit. He had subsequently indicated that the Panchayat would reject the application for a construction licence based on this key discrepancy.
Residents have also pointed out that the project was never placed before the village gram sabha for discussion, alleging a lack of transparency in the approval process. They further reminded authorities of an existing Panchayat resolution that bars the approval of mega housing projects within the village. In addition to planning and procedural concerns, locals have flagged existing infrastructure constraints in the area. According to residents, Ratwaddo is already grappling with issues related to water and power supply, as well as garbage management and sewage disposal.
