the goan I network
Porvorim
Sangolda gramsabha witnessed heated arguments over issues of illegal construction in the fields, sub-standard construction of nullahs, unauthorised kiosks, sale of liqueur in restaurants, etc.
At one point of time two villagers started fighting verbally among themselves. Finally the police were called in to separate the villagers.
Panchayat secretary Pooja Gawas placed before the gram sabha the developmental works suggested by the village development committee.
Anthony De Souza mentioned that VDCs cannot recommend development works without the consent of the Biodiversity Management Committee.
Sarpanch Premand Kochrekar, however, replied that the panchayat has already dissolved the Biodiversity Management Committee and hence its approval is no longer required.
Another member, Sandra Fernandes mentioned that there has been a rise in construction activities in the fields of Sangolda.
“Besides, garbage is being dumped in the fields. If such things continue then there won’t be any field in Sangolda in the near future,” said Sandra, adding that the drains at Bella Vista are kept open on account of which accidents take place.
She thus demanded closure of these drains.
To this, Samson Dias mentioned that the nullah at Bella vista is of substandard quality. “The panchayat should carry out inspection of public works before releasing payment to contractors,” said Dias.
Some villagers complained that a kiosk owned by a lady operates till 4 o’clock in the morning. The activities appear to be suspicious and hence panchayat should revoke the license of this kiosk.
The sarpanch Premnath Kochrekar said, “The panchayat has already revoked the license of the said kiosk upon receipt of complaints from the residents. However the owner of the kiosk has appealed the matter before the courts and the matter is now subjudiced.”
Some villagers also complained that the restaurant near the church sells liquor.
To this, Sapanch Kochrekar mentioned that the panchayat has issued provisional license to the said restaurant and hence it cannot sell liquor.
“The panchayat will complain to the excise and police department in this regard,” he added.
