PANAJI
The Department of Town and Country Planning (TCP) has resolved not to grant any development permission or technical clearance within 200 meters of Bondvol wetland until the Wetland Authority re-demarcates the zone of influence around the lake.
Activist and St Cruz local Inacio Domnic Pereira said that the TCP, during its 228th Board meeting, has resolved that until the Goa State Wetland Authority (GSWA) re-demarcates the zone of influence or buffer zone in and around the Bondvol lake, no new developmental permissions would be granted within 200 meters of the notified wetland.
“It is a victory of the people of St Cruz. However, our fight will continue to preserve the lake till the end,” he said.
Last month, a delegation of St Cruz villagers had met Minister Vishwajit Rane opposing any development around the lake. The Minister assured them that no permissions would be issued until there was clarity on the zone of influence.
Villagers have been demanding proper demarcation of the zone of influence before any construction is allowed. The issue resurfaced after locals claimed that a private party was seen conducting surveys for a proposed project near the lake. They also alleged that the GSWA has notified a narrow buffer zone and warned that unchecked construction could damage the wetland’s fragile ecology.
The villagers cautioned that they would launch a major agitation if any permissions were granted before the zone was clearly demarcated.
