THE GOAN NETWORK
OLD GOA: The Chimbel panchayat was in the dark even as Infotech Corporation of Goa Limited (ITCL) commenced work on barbed wire fencing at the IT Park land on Thursday.
Incidentally, the work was undertaken by the contractor without installing a signboard, as mandated by SC guidelines, indicating the nature of the work and licences from competent authorities.
On learning of the development, some villagers gathered at the site and stopped the work. But the contractor resumed the work after the villagers had dispersed.
When The Goan visited the site, workers informed that they have an order from ITCL for the barbed wire fencing work.
But when questioned whether any NOC has been obtained from the Chimbel panchayat, they replied in the negative.
Inquiries with panchayat authorities also revealed that no correspondence was received by it as far as barbed wire fencing of the IT Park land is concerned.
Speaking to The Goan, secretary of Chimbel Manch Tukaram Kunkolkar condemned the government for violating the SC guidelines by commencing the work without the display of signboard.
“Secondly, no permission was obtained from the local panchayat before commencing the work, which shows that the government doesn't even have the courtesy to inform the local governing body about the same,” Kunkolkar said.
“The development has only given an indication of the things to come as far as the role of Chimbel panchayat is concerned vis a vis the IT Park project.”
Kunkolkar further raised apprehensions that the barbed wire fencing would block the traditional pathways which the villagers use if they want to visit the area for getting herbal medicines or firewood or just to enjoy the nature.
“The wildlife too would have a tough time due to the fencing as very often they come to the lake to quench their thirst and there is a possibility of injuries to animals like wild boars and also the cows which frequent the area,” Kunkolkar added.
