CM: No approvals in eco-sensitive areas

PANJIM, MAY 18
The Town and Country Planning Board has decided not to approve any project in areas notified as eco-sensitive, Chief Minister Digambar Kamat said here today.
Kamat’s announcement came a day after the various organizations protested against the government’s inaction in curbing illegal constructions and approving projects in eco-sensitive areas.
“In the last meeting I had assured the Goa Bacahao Abhiyan (GBA) members that a committee would be appointed to see that no approval is given to any project notified as forest and private forest, mangroves, water bodies and cultivated paddy fields,” Kamat said while addressing a press conference at his official residence.
The chief minister said that the government has already issued a circular in this regard so that there is no doubt in the minds of the people or the complainant,” he stated.
He said that the committee has been appointed based on the decision taken by the TCP in its board meeting.
Amendments to TCP Act
The state government has decided to appoint a committee to suggest amendment to the Town and Country planning Act.
Chief Minister Digamabar Kamat said that the committee will have three legal experts as the members.
“We have suggested names of advocate Mahesh Sonak, Law Commission member Cleofate Coutinho and Nitin Sardesai,” Kamat said.