CANACONA
The Poinguinim Gram Sabha, in response to allegations of mass conversions and environmental harm, called for a mandatory inspection of the Galgibaga-Talpona Beach coast to check for major violations of the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) at the Turtle Conservation Site in Canacona.
At Sunday’s meeting, the Gram Sabha strongly discussed the impact of large housing projects and other developments within the Panchayat area on the environment, local economies, and communities.
Members expressed concern that multi-dwelling units are being built illegally by cutting down hills, filling up khazan lands, and destroying mangroves. They highlighted that such projects are harming the environment, water resources, agriculture, grazing lands, and other economic opportunities for villagers.
“These profit-driven constructions are displacing local residents, especially those whose land and resource rights are not recognised. Poinguinim is at serious risk of irreversible destruction from multi-dwelling units, residential complexes, and large commercial projects,” said the villagers.
Real estate developments are worsening the climate crisis, which threatens coastal areas with rising sea levels, more frequent storms, and floods. The State Action Plan for Climate Change for Goa anticipates water crises, while essential services like water and electricity supply, sewage, garbage management, and road safety are already inadequate and being compromised at the expense of villagers.
The Gram Sabha unanimously resolved that Poinguinim should only allow family homes, small businesses, village schools, hospitals, and other essential structures. It also agreed to allow only limited conversion of agricultural land for genuine non-agricultural uses.
The Panchayat is authorised to direct local authorities, including the Chief Town Planner, Deputy Town Planner, Dy. Collector & SDO of Canacona, and the District Collector & DM (South Goa), to implement the Gram Sabha’s resolutions. The Panchayat can reject applications that go against these resolutions and take legal action if necessary.
During the meeting, a member raised a question to the Sarpanch about the number of tourism trade licences issued. The Sarpanch replied that only three seasonal units are permitted, and these are temporary structures. Member Savy Barretto pointed out that several permanent, concrete structures have been built and urged the Panchayat to inspect the beach coast, particularly since it is part of the Turtle Conservation Site.
