MAPUSA
The Oxel panchayat has decided to issue a show-cause notice to the proprietor of a contentious multi-dwelling project for failing to meet the conditions stipulated in the panchayat licence for construction.
This decision follows a recent inspection and a subsequent panchayat meeting.
On Saturday, Oxel Sarpanch Reshal Arporkar conducted an inspection of the construction site, which is located near the heritage spring in Oxel.
The panchayat body convened a meeting on Monday to deliberate on the appropriate action.
“All the members met today in the panchayat office and decided to issue a show-cause notice to the owner of the multi-dwelling units,” Arporkar stated.
“We cannot directly stop the work as we need to give the developer time to respond to our findings as a matter of natural justice. We are with the people, but we need to follow the procedures,” she added.
The project has faced significant opposition from villagers and environmental activists, including the Goa Green Brigade, who have been protesting its proximity to the heritage spring.
The locals recently held a candlelight vigil and submitted a representation to the panchayat demanding a stop-work order for the project.
Arporkar emphasised the panchayat’s commitment to protect the village’s environment and ecology while adhering to legal protocols.
“We have sent letters to various departments like the PWD, TCP, WRD, health, etc, to conduct inspections and report their findings to the panchayat. Based on their reports, we will decide on the future course of action,” she said.
Meanwhile, the villagers have reiterated their demand for the revocation of the construction licences issued to the project and the issuance of a stop-work order, citing violations of the Goa Land Development Building Construction Regulation 2010 by the builder.
They have also urged the panchayat to file a caveat before the Director of Panchayats to ensure that their concerns are considered in any appeal made by the builder.
The community has warned that if the panchayat fails to issue a stop-work order, they will pursue legal measures to protect the environment and the heritage spring.
