There is no scope in the Regional Plan 2021 to build grounds, gyms, halls, parks, jogger parks and other development projects in the panchayat areas. Whatever mistakes are there in the plan should be rectified.”
Michael Lobo,
MLA Calangute
Fields as settlement zones is not a mistake in RP21, says Lobo
Says more time should have been given to file suggestions
THE GOAN NETWORK
MAPUSA
Voicing concern over Regional Plan 2021 in his constituency, Calangute MLA Michael Lobo has objected to fields being marked as settlement zones.
Addressing a news conference at his residence at Parra, Lobo said many fields were shown in the settlement zone, which was against the interests of Goans.
“In the Regional Plan 2021, not only are fields shown as settlement zones, but there is no mention of grounds and open places. This is not a mistake, but it has been done purposely,” alleged Lobo.
According to the Calangute MLA, there is no scope in Regional Plan 2021 to build grounds, gyms, halls, parks, jogger parks and other development projects in the panchayat areas.
Lobo said the Regional Plan 2021 was prepared by the erstwhile Congress government and was kept on hold by then chief minister Manohar Parrikar.
“The panchayats are in the dark regarding this plan. Similar problems could be faced by other panchayats as well,” he added.
“The government should bring the Regional Plan to safeguard the interests of Goans and whatever mistakes are there in the plan should be rectified.”
“It may be late, but there should be a good plan and care should be taken that there are no allegations that the Regional Plan has been open to keep an eye on the forthcoming assembly election,” said Lobo.
He was, however quick to add that scrapping of the Regional Plan was not a solution.
“But mistakes should be rectified. We must safeguard our fields through the Regional Plan,” he added.
Lobo also stated that the State government should have provided a one-month extension for people to submit their suggestions and objections.
“Catholics and most Goans are engaged in various activities from December 15 to January 31, but the government has chosen this time for people to file suggestions and opinions. People did not get time to file their suggestions during this period,” said Lobo.
