MAPUSA
Villagers of Pomburpa on Sunday put the local panchayat on the defensive, raising a host of issues ranging from mega projects and illegal constructions to unchecked migrant influx and questionable tendering practices.
The tense meeting saw locals accuse the panchayat of turning a blind eye to illegal works.
While permissions were being issued for construction, residents alleged that trees were being felled and structures raised illegally without site inspections. Basic issues of water, power and road connectivity also featured prominently, with villagers charging that the panchayat had “washed its hands off” these responsibilities.
“Our village is being overrun by mega projects, illegal works and migrants, while our basic needs are ignored,” said local resident Dhiren Phadte, who has been vocal on the issue of mega projects.
Some suggested that Pomburpa adopt a model similar to Parra panchayat, which has framed its own safeguards against unregulated development.
A resolution was passed authorising the sarpanch, panch members and villagers to meet the Mapusa Police Inspector to seek action on the verification and regulation of tenants.
Residents also pressed for a full list of migrants residing in the village.
The meeting further turned the spotlight on the manner in which development works were being awarded. Villagers alleged that nearly 90 per cent of projects “ worth over ₹1 crore “ had been allotted to a single contractor, Samir Sheikh. “Is there no other contractor in Bardez? Why should tenders go to only one person?” they asked, warning that the quality of works could be compromised.
A resolution was also proposed to approach the Vigilance Department to investigate the award of tenders.
“We will move Vigilance to find out why one contractor is cornering almost all works,” villagers declared.
