Gauncars cite unchecked construction, strain on resources
MAPUSA
In a significant move aimed at curbing rapid and unplanned development, the Comunidade Fraternal de Aldona has unanimously resolved not to grant road access through comunidade lands to private landowners, gauncars and builders seeking to develop their properties.
The decision was taken at an Extraordinary General Body Meeting held on Sunday, following concerns raised by several gauncars over the increasing pace of construction activity in the village.
A letter submitted by gauncars to the managing committee highlighted what they described as the adverse impact of large-scale development projects, particularly gated residential complexes, on the village’s traditional character and limited resources.
The gauncars argued that the surge in construction activity has been altering the topography of Aldona while placing growing pressure on essential infrastructure such as electricity, water supply and road networks.
They also expressed fears that local residents could eventually be displaced from their own village due to escalating real estate development.
Concern over gated projects
Attorney of the Comunidade Fraternal de Aldona, Chagas Carvalho, said the resolution was prompted by the exponential rise in construction activity witnessed in recent years.
“In the last few years, we have seen an exponential increase in construction activity, especially gated complexes. These are high-cost projects that are not meant for local residents. They put a strain on resources such as power and water,” Carvalho said.
He noted that many developers and landowners first acquire land and subsequently approach the comunidade seeking road access through comunidade property to unlock the development potential of their holdings.
“Many people buy land first and then approach the comunidade for road access. We are not going to give any access to private individuals, builders or anybody,” Carvalho said.
Landlocked properties in focus
According to the gauncars, several private landowners, builders, investors and brokers own landlocked properties without direct road connectivity. Such parties frequently seek road access ranging from six to eight metres through comunidade land to facilitate the construction of multi-dwelling villa projects and gated residential complexes.
The gauncars maintained that granting such access ultimately encourages further construction and commercial exploitation, often resulting in unplanned development and environmental degradation.
They contended that denying road access through comunidade lands was necessary to safeguard the interests of local residents and preserve the unique identity and character of Aldona village.
Apart from the development-related resolution, the comunidade also approved the repair of the sluice gate at Ranoi in Aldona.
Carvalho said the comunidade has identified several sluice gates and bundhs that require urgent repairs but would prioritise the Ranoi sluice gate due to financial constraints.
