CORTALIM: Expressing surprise over the defiance by the promoter of a project in the water body at Quelossim, Cortalim MLA and Forest Minister Alina Saldanha instructed the officials to remove the encroachments and restore the property to its original state. Saldanha who revisited the site exactly after one month was surprised to see a replica of Bom Jesus Basilica at the site. “One cannot play with emotions and fool God,” said Saldanha. In fact the pontoon which was seen during last month’s inspection was now shifted to the other end of the water body.
“I will not allow such a project in the eco-fragile area which is classified as CRZ I,” warned Saldanha who called upon the villagers to ensure that the project is pushed out.
In fact Cortalim-Quelossim Sarpanch Hillario Figueiredo, who was instrumental in issuing a ‘willingness letter’ to the promoter in 2012 only to withdraw it last month following Saldanha’s directive, said he would issue a demolition notice and all the formalities would be completed for action by November 15. Collector assured that he would provide police protection to the demolition squad.
South Goa Collector Vanancio Furtado when posed with a pointed question by Herald as to his role during the last one month in stopping the project, said that he was waiting for the report from his departments like Mamlatdar and other officials before taking action. “I have to see their reports before I act. If not the promoter can go to court,” said Furtado. At this stage, Saldanha intervened saying that there was no question of anybody going to court and succeeding since the works were totally illegal.
Saldanha, when asked whether the promoter has political backing since he would not have risked his investment, said she would not like to suspect anyone unless she had evidence. “May be the promoter thinks that with the money he can get through,” Saldanha said.
Activist Mariano Dias accused the panchayat members especially the three panchas representing Quelossim for the mess.
GCZMA Member Secretary and Environment Director Srinet Kotwale, member Dr Antonio Mascarenhas, Mormugao Mamlatdar Laxmikant Desai were present at the inspection.
