Sarpanch assures special meet to discuss issues
MAPUSA
Concerns over the lack of discussion on key development issues dominated the Tivim gram sabha on Sunday, with villagers expressing dissatisfaction that proposals related to mega projects and a study on the village’s carrying capacity were not taken up for deliberation.
Several members flagged the omission, stressing that with increasing development pressure, it was crucial for the panchayat to assess Tivim’s ability to sustain further growth. Responding to the concerns, Sarpanch Michael Fernandes assured that a special gram sabha meeting would be convened to exclusively discuss these issues. Villager John Baretto demanded that the meeting be held within 30 days, in accordance with provisions of the Panchayat Act.
Amid these concerns, the gram sabha also passed a significant resolution to seek denotification of a proposed 10-metre road shown in the Regional Plan at Gavoim. Villagers argued that the stretch in question is a khazan bandh and should not be altered. The panchayat will write to the Town and Country Planning Minister and the Chief Town Planner to press for its removal from the plan.
In a related move, villagers resolved to approach the Deputy Collector of Bardez to halt the movement of heavy vehicles along the bandh road, citing safety and structural concerns. The panchayat was also urged to install “No Heavy Vehicles” signage along the stretch.
Other local issues were also raised during the meeting. The Tivim football ground came under discussion, with the panchayat proposing fencing under CSR funds to prevent footballs from straying onto the road. While welcoming the step, residents said the ground has lost its standard size due to the construction of a walking track and suffers from poor drainage. Allegations were also made that payments had been released despite incomplete work.
Garbage management remained another point of concern, with villagers alleging continued dumping despite significant expenditure on collection. The panchayat, however, maintained that enforcement drives indicate locals are primarily responsible, prompting suggestions to track rented premises.
The issue of stray cattle in Gavoim khazan land was also highlighted, with calls for action to impound animals roaming on village roads.
