OLD GOA
The Old Goa locals opposed the Investment Promotion Board’s (IPB) eco-tourism project approved near the State monument, the Monte Chapel.
During the gram sabha on Sunday, the locals pointed out that the project is approved within the buffer zone of the Monte Chapel, and the proposed site is a no-development zone.
Addressing the issue, a local, Glen Cabral, informed that such a project cannot be allowed in this area. He stated, “It will destroy the green cover of the area and also compromise the sanctity of the place,” Cabral added, noting that the road access to the area is only around 3 meters. Therefore, this project cannot be allowed at the site under any circumstances.
Sarpanch Vishwas Kuttikar also voiced the panchayat’s opposition to the project and mentioned that an official objection would be filed with the Department of Industries on November 5.
He questioned, “How can such a project be approved without consulting the local panchayat?” Kuttikar also expressed frustration that despite writing to the relevant authorities, no information about the project was shared with the panchayat.
Kuttikar further expressed concerns that once the project is approved, the government may acquire land to build a wide road.
Later, a unanimous resolution was passed to oppose the project and forward it to the authorities concerned.
Earlier, the locals requested the panchayat to consider the Goa Tourism Development Corporation’s (GTDC) proposal to develop amenities in and around the Basilica of Bom Jesus under the central PRASAD scheme. The decision was made after representatives of GTDC consultants explained the planned developments.
The consultant’s representative, Nikhil Salgaonkar, informed that the project would include pathway development, CCTV installations, external illumination, water ATMs, security gadgets, signage, dustbins, benches, and hardscaping of the ground around the Basilica and Se Cathedral. He added that they needed the panchayat’s approval to complete the project before the Exposition in 2024.
However, the locals raised concerns about potential interference with the daily functioning of the Basilica. They questioned whether religious ceremonies would be affected.
Another local, Glen Cabral, inquired about the structure that would be constructed under the PRASAD scheme, which includes provisions for commercial activities. The representatives clarified that this matter would be discussed with stakeholders, including the panchayat, once approved by the TCP.
Ultimately, it was decided to postpone the proposal until all parties involved reached an agreement.
Glen Cabral also raised the issue of the Old Goa Bungalow, where the original owners had reported forgery of their signatures to obtain licenses. He urged the panchayat to pursue the matter with the police and file an FIR against the perpetrators.
However, the panchayat authorities stated that it does not fall under the GPR Act, and the complainant must pursue the matter.
The issue of overcharging by laborers who gather near the Gandhi circle was raised by Cumbarjua RGP president Rupesh Bhandari, who demanded strict action by the panchayat authorities.
Bhandari urged, “The laborers are charging exorbitant fees, and it is high time the panchayat intervenes in the matter.”
Sarpanch Kuttikar stated that the panchayat would first install a signboard informing about the minimum wages to be paid for skilled and unskilled labor.
He assured, “We will then monitor the situation, and if the laborers continue to charge exorbitant amounts, we will not allow them to use the space near the Gandhi circle to offer their services.”
