PORVORIM: The State government on Monday downplayed apprehensions that it has taken up developmental projects at the cost of the environment as the Opposition legislators raised sought to know if government lacks consideration of climate change.
A Calling Attention Motion jointly moved by Goa Forward Party’s Vijai Sardesai, and Congress’ Sankalp Amonkar and Altone D’Costa stated that there was fear and anxiety in the minds of the people regarding floods due to heavy rainfall affecting many parts of Goa. They sought to know whether the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) lacks the capability of promptly dealing with such weather phenomena and if government lacks of consideration of climate change while planning mega infrastructure projects is only worsening the situation.
In a lengthy reply tabled on the floor of the House, Revenue Minister Atanasio Monserrate assured that all projects go through the approval process before various agencies.
“With regard to large infrastructure projects, it may be noted that these are undertaken by central agencies especially NHAI, Railways besides the PWD, GSIDC etc. All such projects need to obtain clearance in terms of Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) wherever applicable. Some of the projects have also been scrutinised by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) such as the Western Bypass road, Margao. Climate change effects are being felt universally and are not limited to Goa. Diversion of low lying lands which are acting as retention basins are generally not permitted but if at all allowed, it will be with special permission from the Department of Town and Country Planning,” he said.
