THE GOAN NETWORK
MAPUSA
Bastora locals have called on their panchayat to take action against unauthorised constructions, landfilling and persistent parking issues in the village, which they say are creating challenges for villagers.
Speaking up at the gram sabha meeting on Sunday, villagers expressed frustration over what they see as inaction by the panchayat on these growing problems.
A local resident John Abreu, highlighted an ongoing issue near the village church, where an entire stretch of road is being used as unauthorised parking, causing traffic congestion and making it difficult for two vehicles to pass simultaneously.
"People are facing hardships," Abreu said. "The panchayat members seem more focused on staying in the good books of everyone rather than taking action against these illegalities," he added.
Abreu further emphasised that the High Court has directed local bodies to proactively address unauthorised activities without waiting for complaints.
He questioned why ward members appeared indifferent to the problem.
"The Bastora panchayat is becoming known for turning a blind eye to landfilling and illegal constructions and for using health acts to grant water and electricity connections to these unauthorised developments. I want to see concrete action taken against illegal houses, shops, and other commercial establishments."
The resident also warned that he is prepared to take the issue to court if no steps are taken by the panchayat.
In response, Acting Sarpanch Sunita Lotlikar assured residents that she would urge the panchayat members to address the issues raised and bring them to the panchayat’s attention.
Another villager, Jerry Barretto, expressed frustration with the lack of progress on repairs to the pathway in Xell Bastora.
Barretto, a senior citizen, said he has been requesting a pathway be designated as a "No Parking" zone in Ward 2 since 2003, but no action has been taken despite multiple letters to the panchayat over the years.
"Every five years, a new panchayat body comes in, and I submit the same letters, yet nothing is done," he said.
Barretto added that although the panchayat recently conducted a survey and inspection, no further steps have been taken to implement the requested changes.
With frustration mounting, residents are now seeking a clear, actionable response from the Bastora panchayat to resolve these longstanding issues and ensure compliance with village regulations.
