Team Herald
MARGAO: Stormy scenes were witnessed at the Cavelossim gram sabha over the panchayat’s failure to act against the alleged illegal road constructed in the No Development Zone (NDZ) by former cricketer Ashish Nehra
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The villagers went hammer and tongs at the panchayat body for failing to act against the destruction of sand dunes and environmental degradation at the beach while the sarpanch defended the panchayat’s limited powers in violations related to Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) violations.
The panchayat clarified that the matter is under review by the GCZMA and emphasized their limited powers in enforcing fines and can impose fine upto Rs 25,000.
The gram sabha also resolved to oppose development in the CRZ after destruction of sand dunes.
Tensions ran high as villagers debated the impact of such developments, with some calling for stricter regulations and others defending their right to develop their land. Police intervention sought to bring the tense situation under control.
The gram sabha saw a large turnout of villagers and generated mixed responses regarding the proposed ban on developmental projects. One faction called for sustainable development and opposed mega projects, emphasizing the need to protect the environment.
Conversely, another group asserted their rights to develop their own land legally, arguing that they should have the freedom to proceed with development as they see fit.
Recently, the discussion centered on the destruction of sand dunes and vegetation at Mobor beach had resulted in conflicts between some villagers and the panchayat body. Villagers had voiced their concerns and called for a master plan for the village, advocating for a total ban on mega projects while suggesting that only single dwelling constructions for locals should be permitted.
During the gram sabha, Fr Eremint Rebello warned that much of Cavelossim village could soon be submerged, emphasizing the urgent need to halt mega projects like hotels along the coast.
Fr Rebello also advocated for allowing single dwelling constructions for locals, emphasizing the importance of enabling residents to develop their own properties.
He argued that large-scale projects should be restricted to protect the environment.
Paul Lobo echoed similar sentiments, asserting that the community is not naïve when it comes to development issues.
He emphasized the urgency of making decisions that would shape the future of Cavelossim, advocating for immediate action to halt the destruction of sand dunes and the coastal environment.
In contrast, another group of villagers argued against a complete halt to development, stating that it would be unreasonable to stop all progress based on isolated incidents of sand dune and vegetation destruction. They emphasized the need for a balanced approach that allows for responsible development while still addressing environmental concerns.
One villager at the meeting stressed the importance of sustainable development, arguing against some creating fear among the community regarding mega projects and environmental destruction.
He contended that a blanket ban on construction would be unjust, particularly in response to the actions of a few outsiders who have purchased land in the village.
Villagers also discussed the need for a Regional Plan to establish a comprehensive master plan for their village.
Sarpanch Dixon Vas clarified that no applications for hotel projects have been submitted to the panchayat in Cavelossim. He emphasized that the ongoing issue regarding road construction and the alleged destruction of sand dunes and vegetation is currently under review by the GCZMA.
He further stated that the panchayat has made its position clear: all developmental projects must comply with the law, and there will be no development that involves the destruction of sand dunes and vegetation in the beach area.
Sarpanch Vas also mentioned that a notice has been issued to the responsible party, requiring them to restore the sand dunes to their original condition, reinforcing the panchayat’s commitment to environmental protection.
