MARGAO: There have been strong reactions to the decision of the South Goa Planning and Development Authority (SGPDA) to send the draft Margao Outline Development Plan (ODP) 2031 to the Town and Country Planning (TCP) Board for approval and notification.
The grievance stems from the statement issued by SGPDA Chairperson Krishna ‘Daji’ Salkar, indicating that the sub-committee appointed by the SGPDA had conducted extensive hearings where all those who had submitted objections and suggestions were given an opportunity to convey their views in person, and that the final ODP had incorporated minor changes accordingly.
It may be recalled that when Salkar was asked by media persons about activists who had earlier complained that the ODP had problems and needed thorough evaluation, Salkar had stated that the activists should be happy with the final ODP as the corrections had been made.
Some of those who had submitted objections, however, stated that they were not called for any hearing and have demanded that a copy of the final ODP be made publicly available so that they can confirm that their objections had been noted.
NGO Goyche Fudle Pilge Khatir (GFPK), a staunch advocate for Goa’s environment and heritage, has slammed the finalised Margao Outline Development Plan (ODP) as riddled with flaws and urged immediate revisions. Despite meticulously presenting their 28 objections during a May 31, 2023, hearing, the GFPK and concerned citizens have been met with deafening silence from the authorities, prompting them to demand transparency and accountability.
GFPK President Jack Mascarenhas said they were not called for the hearing either despite being promised that they would be given a date to convey their concerns.
GFPK dissected the ODP, exposing what it claims will have a detrimental impact on Margao’s environment, heritage, and residents’ quality of life. “The plan’s concerning aspects include unchecked urban sprawl, green betrayal, infrastructure deficit, and a disregard for sustainability and participatory planning principles,” said Mascarenhas.
Unwilling to accept this flawed plan, the GFPK has outlined a multi-pronged strategy. They have formally requested the finalised ODP to analyse the changes made and assess how their concerns were addressed or ignored. The GFPK is also exploring legal options, including writ petitions or Public Interest Litigation (PIL), to challenge the ODP’s legality and advocate for public interest. Additionally, they will continue public meetings and engagement with local representatives and state legislators to amplify their concerns.
GFPK has urged the authorities to heed the public outcry and revise the ODP. The GFPK has also appealed to the public to join their campaign and demand a better ODP for Margao, which they added deserves a sustainable and inclusive future.
