the goan I network
VASCO
Claiming that the open air hall proposed near the Verna lake was a scam, local social activist Franky Dmello on Thursday said the Verna Panchayat must come clear on
the project.
Addressing a news conference in Vasco, D’Mello produced documents like TCP clearance and trade license granted by the Verna panchayat to the developer.
“This issue had rocked the recent Gram Sabha and when locals raised questions, both the sarpanch and panchayat secretary could not provide satisfactory answers,” said D’Mello.
Questioning the panchayat’s role in the open air hall despite public opposition, D’Mello said, “The Verna panchayat had granted trade license despite the project not having a proper TCP technical clearance.”
“This panchayat has fooled the people. The TCP clearance shows the permission granted for the proposed construction of a residential house, domestic storage and toilet block with a compound wall in the plot.”
“However, the Verna Panchayat has granted a trade licence to run business for open air hall and dance floor. How can two different projects take place in same plot,” asked D’Mello.
“While the TCP thinks a house is being built in the area, an open air hall is granted trade license by another authority, the Verna panchayat... when we raise issues, we are accused of being trouble makers. Now, I want to know what is the interest in this proposed project.”
“This project, near the lake, will cause ecological damage. A small portion of this land is settlement in a catchment area and without NOC and permission from WRD and GCZMA, no development can take place here.”
D’Mello claimed that the remaining area of the open air hall is in orchard area and plot shown for parking is a hillock with more than 25% gradient.
“Hence, mere permission from the TCP and a panchayat licence is not enough to carry out this work,” said D’Mello.
D’Mello demanded that Panchayats Minister Mauvin Godinho must look into the matter and conduct an enquiry into the role of
Verna panchayat.
