Team Herald
PANJIM: Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) has sought a clarification from Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) with regard to the proposed construction of helipad facility at the Aguada plateau and operations of helicopter joyride currently on hold.
The clarification is based on a complaint filed by former Congress MLA Agnelo Fernandes, who alleged that the proposed projects are illegal. The MLA alleged that Heli Tourism would disturb the ecological biodiversity at Aguada and hence demanded action.
Accordingly, GCZMA in a communication to GTDC has requested the latter to furnish details of the helicopter ride and helipad construction, at the earliest.
“You are hereby requested to kindly provide clarification with respect to the projects undertaken by your office including details of the project, approved plans, necessary permissions obtained and also detailed clarification with respect to the proposed construction of helipad,” GCZMA member secretary Srinet Kothwale said in the letter.
“Following a reply from Tourism department, the expert members will conduct a site inspection to determine the violations, if any,” Kothwale told Herald.
Following severe protests from locals, the State government had kept the helicopter ride and construction of helipad on hold, while directing Pawan Hans Limited – operating the service in the State – to look for an alternative site.
Meanwhile, Fernandes along with the Candolim Sarpanch and panch members – those who led the agitation against the projects leading to their detention and release – have been directed to sign a six-month bond as surety that they will not disturb the peace in the locality.
In an order issued under Section 107 of the CrPC, Mapusa Deputy Collector, Pundalik Khorjuekar issued a show cause notice to Fernandes and the others.
The protestors have refused to deposit the bond amount and also to remain present for personal hearing on March 8. “We dare the government to arrest us. If this is an attempt for backdoor entry to helicopter project then we will agitate and court arrest,” Fernandes said in the presence of VP members.
