MARGAO
The gram sabha of the Village Panchayat of Chinchinim-Deussua on Sunday saw villagers expressing their strong opposition to the sale of agricultural and orchard land to non-Goans.
At the gram sabha meeting chaired by newly-elected Sarpanch Frank Viegas, the members raised a host of questions and concerns with the meeting unanimously resolving to preserve the community’s agricultural heritage and enhancing infrastructure to support the villagers’ needs.
On the protection of agricultural and orchard land, the gram sabha members expressed strong opposition to the sale of agricultural and orchard land to non-Goans. This resolution adopted at the meeting emphasised the importance of safeguarding local agricultural practices and ensuring that land remains accessible to the local farming community.
Sarpanch Frank said the panchayat will work towards implementing measures that restrict such sales and protect the agricultural landscape of Chinchinim and will bring to the notice of the concerned departments.
The controversial NH66 also figured at the gram sabha with members voicing significant concerns regarding traffic congestion and safety along NH66, particularly at Dandeavaddo Chinchinim.
Sarpanch Frank informed that the panchayat has formally requested the construction of a bypass or stilts to alleviate traffic issues and enhance pedestrian safety. This infrastructure improvement is crucial for the well-being of the community, and the panchayat is committed to pursuing this request with the relevant authorities, he added.
The long-delayed construction of panchayat ghar took the centrestage at the gram sabha. When gram sabha members sought to know the status of the panchayat ghar project, the sarpanch pointed out that the panchayat has submitted a request to the Chief Minister for the phased construction of this facility, which will serve as a hub for local governance and community activities. The establishment of a panchayat ghar is essential for improving administrative efficiency and fostering community engagement, he said. “The need for a dedicated panchayat ghar has been highlighted as a priority for the community,” the sarpanch later informed.
He said the Village Panchayat of Chinchinim-Deussua reaffirms its commitment to addressing the concerns of its residents and will actively engage with government officials to ensure that these resolutions are realised for the benefit of the community.
