PANJIM: The cabinet on Friday gave its stamp of approval for issuing an ordinance to permit eco-friendly projects in eco-sensitive zones.
Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar addressing the media said, “Last budget we had assured the people that eco-tourism policy would be launched and thereby permit huts and tents in eco-sensitive zones. Acting on the promise the cabinet today approved issuing an ordinance to amend the TCP Act for the purpose.”
Giving details he said that those having 20,000 sq mt or more land can utilise 5 percent of the land for eco-friendly projects such as camping huts and tents. He further said that the structure height must not exceed that of S4 zone, which is 7.5 meters.
Parsekar said any person desiring to set up eco or agro friendly project/resorts in eco-sensitive zone shall apply to the Planning and Development Authority in case land is in the planning area or to the chief town planner in case the land is in non-planning area for grant of permission.
“After receipt of application, if PDA and the CTP are satisfied that the project is eco-friendly and temporary in nature it will be forwarded to the Goa Town and Country Planning Board for recommendation and thereafter approval of the government,” he said.
Further, he said, the CTP or PDA will then give permissions for setting up of the project, which will be for a period of three years and can be extended for a further three years.
The cabinet also approved the scheme for financial assistance to unemployed youth. Parsekar said the cabinet approved the share capital which will be 50 percent for general youth and 80 percent for SC/ST applicants.
He said that government will give 25 per cent subsidy on the share capital under this scheme.
