Demand halt to construction approvals until issues are resolved
VOICES RISE IN UNITY: A large number of Pomburpa-Olaulim villagers attend the gram sabha on Sunday, raising concerns over unchecked development and lack of basic amenities.
Mapusa
Residents of Pomburpa-Olaulim have raised strong objections to the increasing number of large-scale construction projects being approved by the local panchayat, citing a lack of essential infrastructure such as water supply, electricity, and waste management facilities.
During the gram sabha held on Sunday, locals questioned how the panchayat could continue granting permissions for mega construction projects despite the village grappling with an ongoing water crisis.
“We don’t have enough water and power for existing households. How will the village manage with more buildings coming up?” questioned several residents.
One of the key demands put forth by the villagers was that no further construction permissions be granted until a permanent Material Recovery Facility (MRF) shed is established in the village. Currently, the panchayat operates from a temporary MRF shed.
“Unless and until a permanent MRF shed is in place, the panchayat cannot issue permission for constructions,” said Dhiren Phadte, a local resident, warning that villagers may approach the High Court if approvals continue.
Concerns were also raised over the condition of roads that were dug up over a year ago for underground cabling but have not been repaired since.
Villagers said the poor condition of the roads has led to several accidents and is posing daily hardships to motorists and pedestrians.
“The roads are in terrible shape. The authorities must act now,” said Phadte, urging the panchayat to write to the PWD and local MLA to expedite repairs.
Traffic congestion in the village also came under discussion. Locals urged the panchayat to request the traffic department to deploy personnel in the area to help regulate vehicular movement on the narrow roads, which are frequently choked during peak hours.
The growing garbage problem in the village was another pressing concern. Residents said that waste is being dumped indiscriminately at multiple locations by unidentified individuals, adding to the sanitation challenges.
The gram sabha was chaired by Deputy Sarpanch Shankar Bude in the absence of the sarpanch, who is currently on leave.
Villagers called for urgent and concrete action on the various issues raised, warning that unchecked development without adequate infrastructure would severely impact the quality of life in the village.
