Locals say plot located in low-lying area with fields
Residents of Ratwaddo-Navelim at the inspection conducted by the Navelim village panchayat in respect of a mega housing project on Saturday.
MARGAO
The Ratwaddo ward of Navelim village on Saturday witnessed an uproar over a mega housing project proposed in the area.
Local residents turned up in large numbers for an inspection conducted by Navelim Panchayat of the proposed housing project, comprising of four row houses and around 15-16 flats. The inspection was conducted in the presence of Navelim Panchayat Sarpanch Paul Pereira, the Panchayat Secretary, Ratwaddo Panch member Viena, besides the project owner and the entire residents of Ratwaddo.
During the inspection, locals pointed out that there is no proper 6-metre access road , and the road conditions are inadequate. They also pointed out that the plot is situated in a low-lying area comprising fields and a fish catchment zone. Additionally, the proposed STP (Sewage Treatment Plant) is planned next to a residential area, raising serious concerns.
The local residents further contended that the project was not discussed at the Gram Sabha as they reminded that a resolution was passed in the Gram Sabha stating that no more mega projects should be allowed in Navelim and specifically in wards.
“Our ward has fewer than 50 houses and is already facing issues related to electricity, water supply, garbage management, and sewage from existing builders, which is flowing into the Salpem lake fields”, informed a local resident.
He added: “The entire Ratwaddo community strongly opposes this project and has requested the project proponent to relocate the project to his own home land in Nagmodem instead of imposing it on our small ward that will do the destruction and damage to the environment”.
When The Goan contacted sarpanch Paul Pereira to shed light on the inspection, he said that the Panchayat would not issue the construction licence for the project on grounds that the area is low lying and a catchment area. He admitted that the road leading to the project site is not six metres on the ground.
