MARGAO: Residents of Davondem, Fatorda, on Thursday marched to the Margao Municipal Council (MMC), demanding the cancellation of several proposed mega housing projects, alleging they would strain the village’s limited infrastructure, worsen water shortages and alter its character.
The protest began at the site of one of the proposed projects and proceeded to the MMC office, with demonstrators raising slogans against what they termed “unplanned urbanisation.” Police were deployed outside the civic body to maintain law and order.
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In a memorandum, residents said they had opposed a proposed 294-flat project nearly two months ago but claimed more large housing projects were now planned in Davondem and nearby areas.
Addressing the gathering, resident Agnel Fernandes said Davondem lacked the infrastructure to support multiple large developments. He said the village has faced chronic water shortages for years and questioned how authorities would meet the increased demand for basic services. He claimed at least five major projects were planned in Davondem, with several more across Fatorda, including one near the village playground, and urged residents across the constituency to oppose them.
A delegation later met MMC Chief Officer Madhu Narvekar and submitted their representation. Narvekar clarified that the municipality had not granted permission for the projects. He said the MMC had earlier acted on a complaint about a project hoarding and directed its removal after an inspection. He added that barricading and preliminary work had been undertaken on the basis of permissions issued by the South Goa Planning and Development Authority (SGPDA), not the MMC.
Narvekar assured residents that their memorandum and the municipality’s correspondence would be forwarded to the SGPDA. He also said the MMC would review the matter and take an appropriate decision within 15 days.
Residents maintained they would continue their agitation until the proposed projects are withdrawn, saying development should not come at the cost of the village’s environment, infrastructure and quality of life.
