the goan I network
MAPUSA
“The basic aim of the notification was to give token numbers to illegal houses which already existed for more than 20 years so that the panchayat could get revenue. But now taking advantage of the notification, people have started building houses on orchard land and in paddy fields and then apply for token numbers,” Chopdekar said.
He said after applying for token numbers, these people simultaneously apply and obtain NOCs of health, electricity and water supply.
“So even if we do not give token numbers to such people or try to keep their files pending, they manage to get basic necessities from the other departments,” the sarpanch said.
He said around 30 applications for token numbers were pending with the Pomburpa Panchayat. According to the sarpanch, the government should re-visit the ordinance and issue more clear guidelines or else constructions will mushroom without anyone’s control.
A gram sabha member raised the issue of deterioration condition of the popular Pomburpa spring.
The sarpanch informed the gram sabha that Goa Tourism Development Corporation Ltd (GTDC) that looked after the maintenance of the spring had recently withdrawn a sweeper from the spring.
“Now, the panchayat has kept a sweeper to clean the surroundings at the spring,” Chopdekar informed.
He further disclosed that the septic tank at the site was leaking and needed urgent attention.
The gram sabha later decided to take a delegation of the panchayat members to meet the GTDC Managing Director and request him to resolve the issue.
Deputy Sarpanch, Bertha Almeida, other panch members, panchayat secretary, Avelino D’Souza and BDO observer, Ivo Laurence were present for the gram sabha.
