THE GOAN NETWORK
MAPUSA
In an order that was widely anticipated following the swift scheduling of the hearing, Block Development Officer-I (Bardez) Prathamesh Anil Shankardas on Friday stayed the stop-work order issued by the Saligao Village Panchayat against the controversial residential housing project at Bairo Alto-Vaddo, Saligao.
The interim relief was granted after the BDO heard the project proponents, representatives of the Saligao panchayat and the complainants during the hearing held on Friday.
While staying the panchayat's stop-work direction, the BDO made it clear that the relief is temporary and subject to strict conditions.
At the same time, the authority permitted the Saligao panchayat to proceed with the already scheduled joint site inspection on July 20 to verify allegations of construction violations.
In his order, the BDO directed that the operation of the stop-work notice shall remain stayed until the next date of hearing.
However, the builders have been permitted to continue construction only in accordance with the approved building plans, technical clearance and construction licence.
Importantly, the BDO observed that if the joint inspection on July 20 reveals any structural violations or deviations from the approved plans, the Saligao panchayat will be free to initiate immediate action under the relevant provisions of the Goa Panchayat Raj Act, 1994, after following the prescribed legal procedure, irrespective of the interim stay.
The BDO has placed the responsibility of conducting the inspection squarely on the Saligao panchayat, directing it to lead, coordinate and execute the exercise through its authorised officials. The project proponents, along with their site engineers, and the original complainants have also been asked to remain present during the inspection and extend full cooperation to the inspection team.
Observing the seriousness of the matter, the BDO has directed the Saligao sarpanch and the panchayat secretary to remain personally present before the authority on the next date of hearing.
The matter has now been posted for filing of replies and arguments on July 23.
The order comes a day after questions were raised over the speed with which the Bardez BDO's office acted on the developers' appeal.
As reported by The Goan, the hearing was fixed within hours of the project proponents challenging the stop-work order issued by the village panchayat, prompting criticism from local residents who alleged that ordinary citizens seldom receive such expeditious hearings in administrative matters.
