MAPUSA
Stating that multi-dwelling constructions put pressure on infrastructure thereby depriving basic necessities like water and power to locals, Siolim-Marna villagers on Sunday unanimously resolved not to allow any mega construction in the village in future.
The villagers said the multi-storied constructions have put pressure on the village infrastructure and thereby inconvenienced the local residents in the village.
“The panchayat body should use its power to deny permission to new projects. There are several laws and court orders which the panchayats could use to back up their cases against the mega constructions,” said Suraj Chodankar, a local resident.
The panchayat secretary tried to explain to members of the gram sabha that such a resolution was not tenable in law and would therefore be declared invalid.
But the angry villagers were not ready to listen to sane views and compelled the panchayat body to pass a resolution to oppose mega construction in the village.
Several proposals of development like construction of footpath from Trachi-bath to the church, repair of fish market shed and installation of zebra crossings were also passed at the gram sabha.
A local also made a strong demand to undertake repair of the crematorium in the village which was in a very bad state. The panchayat informed that a proposal for the repair has been placed before the BDO.
During the discussion on the Coastal Zone Management Plan, the situation went a little out of hand when a local Alex Pereira tried to explain how the panchayat was encouraging illegalities by the river side against CRZ rules.
At least two panchayat members and the owner of an alleged illegal construction at Uddo, Siolim almost came to blows with the local on the issue
However, the police personnel present at the site brought the situation under control.
Sarpanch Monali Pednekar disapproved of the entire scene and appealed to the members of gram sabha not to drag personal issues at the meeting which only will lead to cancellation of the gram sabha.
