the goan I network
VASCO
The Navy’s proposal seeking its permission to any development within a 20-km radius around the airport has evoked sharp reactions, with Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho slamming the Navy and saying it cannot be allowed to rule Goa.
Godinho has said Chief Minister Pramod Sawant will convene a high level meeting with the Navy and all agencies concerned on October 22 to discuss the issue.
Speaking to reporters from his constituency office, Godinho said the State government will take a strong view on the proposal of “No Development without Naval Permission” in the 20-km radius around the Airport, which has been put up by naval authorities.
“What may be applicable to other states cannot be applicable for Goa because Goa is small in size and is half the size of a district in other neighbouring states.”
“The Navy’s proposal could include places like Agassaim, Verna, Ponda and Dona Paula in the 20-km radius and anyone building houses in these areas would have to seek a Naval NOC, thus causing a lot of inconveniences to people.”
“I wonder if this is a ploy to rule Goans and the Navy must remember that we have an elected government here and we are living in a democracy.”
“The State government will take a very strong view on this and we cannot allow Goa to be ruled by the Navy. Imagine a big vast area from Agassaim to Verna to Ponda and Verna will be under naval domain and to build a house, people will have to seek its NOC. Everyone knows how difficult it is for a common man to even enter their gates,” said Godinho.
“I have requested Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to call all agencies concerned and take up the matter to address this issue. Incidentally, this matter has also figured in the high court and we have to give our response. A meeting to take up this issue is convened on October 22 and the Navy will also be invited along with all the other agencies,” said Godinho.
The minister also hit out at the Navy for failing to cooperate with the Mormugao Planning and Development Authority (MPDA).
“I am also a member of the MPDA and we have been asking the Navy to give us a zoning plan with a colour code, indicating the area which can be developed and the height permitted for houses or buildings. But till date, they have not submitted the zoning plan despite asking them several times.”
“These colour codes will identify different zones and further the distance from the airport, the height may go up, but this has not been given as yet to MPDA.”
“The Navy claims it only has a soft copy which can be viewed if needed. Is this the way to deal with important issues.” Being the MLA of Dabolim, I cannot allow my area to become totally out of bounds for people,”
said Godinho.
