Team Herald
MARGAO: A day after the Goa Housing Board laid the foundation stone for its housing project in Ambaji-Fatorda, local residents have raised strong objections, citing fears of increased crime, religious tensions, and worsening civic issues.
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The project aims to deliver 130 flats to the area, but social activist and resident Milagres Fernandes has criticised the initiative, alleging political motives aimed at creating vote banks rather than addressing the genuine needs of the community.
“Fatorda is already struggling with low water pressure, garbage management, and sewage problems,” Fernandes said. He claimed the project is unlikely to benefit Fatorda’s residents, despite government assurances.
Fernandes referenced a previous housing project of 30 villas, ostensibly built for Goans, which he alleged were ultimately sold to affluent, non-Goan buyers. “The government claimed those villas would help Goans, but they’ve been occupied by wealthy non-Goans instead. We fear this new project will follow the same pattern,” he said.
Calling for transparency, Fernandes demanded an inquiry into the allotment of flats in the earlier project and insisted that this development would exacerbate existing challenges in Fatorda.
“This project will worsen our problems. The government promises jobs and opportunities, but none of these materialise for locals,” he added, suggesting the housing project be relocated outside the town.
Highlighting the struggle of Fatorda residents to secure land for their homes, Fernandes criticised the government for ignoring local concerns in favour of politically motivated development.
“The people of Fatorda are being sidelined while unresolved issues plague our area. We cannot allow this project to go ahead without addressing our pressing concerns,” he said, calling on residents to unite against the initiative.
Fernandes concluded by urging Fatorda’s community to oppose the Goa Housing Board’s project, asserting that it prioritises political interests over local welfare.
