MARGAO
The recent notification issued by the Town and Country Planning Department regarding the proposed classification of ecologically sensitive areas in the villages of Velim, Assolna and Sarzora in Velim constituency has generated considerable public interest and requires careful legal and technical examination.
Velim MLA Cruz Silva has raised questions regarding the terminology and its implications vis-à-vis classifications such as “Non-Developable Area” and “No Development Slope” under different planning instruments.
“As the elected representative of Velim constituency, I believe that the protection of our paddy fields, orchards, wetlands, rivers, canals, mangroves and other environmentally sensitive areas must remain a top priority. These natural assets are vital for ecological balance, agriculture, groundwater recharge, biodiversity and the livelihoods of local communities,” he said.
Stressing the need to examine whether this notification introduces any substantive change or merely reclassifies areas that are already protected, Silva said the TCP notification raises serious questions that deserve answers. “If the proposal merely renames areas that are already protected, what is its real purpose? Why has the government introduced new terminology without clearly explaining its legal implications? The people of Velim deserve complete transparency, not ambiguity,” he questioned.
Saying he would undertake a detailed study of the notification, consult planning and legal experts, and place his findings before the public, Silva said he would oppose them through every democratic and legal forum if he finds that the proposed changes weaken existing environmental safeguards or adversely affect ecologically sensitive lands.
He also urged residents, panchayats, farmers, environmental groups and concerned citizens to carefully study the notification and submit their suggestions or objections within the stipulated period. Public participation is essential to ensure that the interests of our villages and future generations remain protected.
