Team Herald
MARGAO: Responding to demands from Benaulim residents, the Cana-Benaulim panchayat has scheduled an extraordinary gram sabha on Thursday to deliberate on the contentious parking facility issue at Benaulim beach.
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The panchayat’s notice indicates that discussions will centre around proposals concerning Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) land in the village, particularly regarding specific survey numbers.
During the previous gram sabha, members expressed strong opposition to a Tourism Department proposal to transfer the beach parking lot to a private entity. The parking facility, covering a sprawling area and heavily utilised by locals and visitors, is seen as vital for the community. Concerns were raised about the potential consequences for local businesses and tourists if the transfer results in restricted public access.
Rudolf Barretto, a gram sabha member, questioned whether the panchayat had been consulted on the proposal and stressed the importance of involving the local governing body in such critical decisions.
Following widespread discussions, residents agreed to call an extraordinary meeting to thoroughly examine the issue and decide on future actions.
Although there have been reports of misuse of the parking lot at night by anti-social elements, the facility remains essential due to the limited availability of parking in the area. It serves as a crucial amenity for locals, tourists, and other visitors.
