Citizens’ Committee of Loliem submits memo to Collector
the goan I network
MARGAO
While the residents armed with banners and placards demonstrated against the proposed IIT outside, a delegation led by Dennis Fernandes and others called on the District Collector and submitted a memorandum demanding an immediate stop to the ongoing works, with a plea to take up thorough study of the impact of the proposed land-use change on the environment, economy and society in consultations with the local communities, before deciding on the suitability of the land for further considerations.
The Collector told the media that since he has received a memorandum from the local residents, he will study the matter before taking a call on the issue. “I have told the residents that the Directorate of Technical Education is the department which will acquire the land for the project. I will check up with the acquiring department certain issues raised by the residents of Loliem,” Swapnil said.
Dennis later told the media that the residents had two months ago submitted a detailed memorandum to the Collector and other government authorities citing the reasons why the villagers have strong reservations against the project.
Replying to a question, he said irrespective of whether the authorities take cognizance of the demands of the residents or not, they will oppose acquisition of the Bhagwati plateau tooth and nail. The residents further pointed out that the Loliem panchayat has not adopted any resolution objecting to the project on grounds that the panchayat is yet to receive any information about the proposed IIT campus.
They pointed out that the Loliem panchayat is expected to meet later this week to discuss the issue and take a decision on the issue vis-Ã -vis the representation received from the local populace.
