VASCO: Mormugao MLA Milind Naik has reiterated that the illegal structures that were demolished and those that would be demolition at Baina beach violated CRZ norms.
The demolitions were warranted for violation of CRZ norms and not because it is his or the States wish, he said, and accused the opposition leaders of spreading rumours that he was responsible for the demolitions.
“I don’t understand why people are spreading rumours amongst the Baina residents that I am the one behind the demolitions. Let me make it clear that the Baina demolition drive has been going on since the last 15 to 20 years, and no government can protect these structures. It is only because someone approached the court citing CRZ violations that these structures have to be demolished,” said Naik, while speaking to reporters after inaugurating road works at Baina on Thursday.
He added, “Even during the municipal elections, I tried my best to convince the people that blaming me won’t solve anything. I am the one who was making efforts to ensure that those who have already lost their structures and those residents whose structures will be demolished get help. At the moment, I am not in a position to reveal what kind of help, but surely the government will give some financial relief to the affected residents. But it will take some time and will not be done immediately.”
On his ambitious plan of beautifying Baina beach and the consequences for local fishermen, Naik said, “We have taken care to ensure that the two fishing communities that are operating from Baina beach are not disturbed and to give them amenities for smooth fishing operations. With regards to the beautification project, an 850-900-meter long stretch will be beautified in phase one, while another 400 meters in phase two. Additionally, there will be illumination on the beach and all this will cost around Rs 2.30 crore.”
