SUNDAY, MAY 19, 2024
Team Herald
The State Cabinet has granted approval for the passing of an ordinance, exempting beach shacks and temporary structures on public beaches from requiring construction permissions from the Town and Country Planning (TCP) Department and local Panchayats. The newly approved Goa Erection of Shacks/Temporary Structures on Public Beaches Regulation and Control Ordinance 2023 encompasses regulations for the erection, control, and management of beach shacks and temporary structures in accordance with the Beach Shack policy.
During a Cabinet briefing, Chief Minister Sawant announced that the ordinance would be applicable to both existing and future structures. Notably, the ordinance emphasizes that TCP approval and construction licenses from Panchayats are not mandatory for these temporary structures, as they are deemed to be of a transient nature. However, Sawant clarified that trade-related permissions would still be obligatory. The State Tourism and Environment Department will oversee the granting of necessary permissions.
The decision to introduce the ordinance stems from recent challenges encountered in the management of beach structures. Chief Minister Sawant believes that this move will particularly benefit structures facing potential sealing by the High Court in the North Goa beach belt.
Other Cabinet Decisions:
10% Salary Hike for Doctors at Super Specialty Hospital: The Cabinet approved a 10% salary increase for doctors appointed on a regular basis at the Super Specialty Hospital in Bambolim.
Procurement of 50 New EV Buses: Under the Central Scheme, the Cabinet sanctioned the procurement of 50 new electric buses for the Kadamba Transport Corporation (KTC).
Creation and Revival of Technical Enforcement Posts: The Cabinet proposed the creation and revival of 54 technical enforcement posts in the Commercial Tax Department.
Amendment to Goa Minor Minerals Concession Rules: Amendments to the Goa Minor Minerals Concession Rules 1985 were approved to streamline and expedite permissions for mining minor minerals like laterite stones and sand.
Extension of Government Job Scheme for Freedom Fighters' Children: The Cabinet extended the scheme providing government jobs to children of freedom fighters for an additional year, until February 28, 2025. Applications from around 30 eligible candidates will be considered after thorough verification.
Transfer of Land for Unity Mall: A plot of 25,000 square meters in Merces will be transferred to the Tourism Department for the establishment of Unity Mall.
Reactivation of Swayampurna Board: The Cabinet approved the reactivation of the Swayampurna Board.
