MAPUSA
Strong opposition from residents against the establishment of a nightclub in a residential area of Anjuna has led the village panchayat to call for an inspection of the controversial project.
The issue surfaced during the gram sabha, where villagers questioned the panchayat’s decision to issue a provisional license to the nightclub without a thorough examination of its implications.
Many residents alleged that the license was granted either in ignorance or despite awareness of the project’s nature.
Community concerns
A local resident, Jeremy Ferreira voiced concerns about the negative impact the nightclub could have on the village’s quality of life.
He pointed out discrepancies in the documentation, stating that while the panchayat issued a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for an indoor restaurant and bar, the project’s layout plan described it as a “Club at Goa” with designated spaces for DJs and performances.
Ferreira highlighted the potential for noise law violations, particularly with loud music being played late into the night.
He also raised issues such as increased traffic congestion on the village’s narrow roads, which would pose risks to pedestrians, children and the elderly. Additionally, he warned of potential incidents of rowdiness, altercations, and substance abuse that could disrupt the peace of the residential area.
Community mobilization
Over a dozen residents signed a petition urging the panchayat not to approve the nightclub.
“Such activities should be restricted to non-residential areas where they can operate without disturbing local communities,” Ferreira said.
During the gram sabha, villagers displayed the nightclub’s layout plan, revealing its intended use as a full-fledged entertainment venue. The disclosure left the sarpanch, Laxmidas Chimulkar, and other panchayat members visibly unsettled.
P’yat’s response
Initially, Sarpanch Chimulkar suggested that residents file a formal complaint, promising to act on it. However, gram sabha members insisted that the discussion itself be treated as a formal complaint and demanded immediate action. Yielding to public pressure, Chimulkar agreed to conduct an inspection of the proposed nightclub.
The inspection is expected to determine whether the nightclub has violated any zoning or noise regulations.
“This is not just about one nightclub; it’s about safeguarding the peace and safety of our community,” Ferreira said, summing up the collective sentiment of Anjuna’s residents.
