Team Herald
MARGAO: Former Minister Mickky Pacheco has alleged that nearly 40 buildings have been constructed in the orchid zone at Consua, and he has called for the immediate resignation of local MLA Anton Vas. Pacheco also urged Town and Country Planning (TCP) Minister Vishwajit Rane to address the issue, warning of protests to highlight the problem.
At a press conference in Margao on Thursday, Pacheco expressed frustration with the TCP department's failure to address illegal hill cutting and permit projects in orchid zones and agricultural areas. “Nearly 40 buildings have been constructed in Consua in violation of TCP norms. The area is surrounded by hills on three sides and is partially orchid and agricultural land,” Pacheco stated.
He accused local political leaders of complicity in allowing these constructions despite the violations. Pacheco dismissed MLA Vas' opposition to the Bhutani project at Sancoale as insufficient evidence of non-involvement, highlighting the ongoing permitting of buildings in violation of regulations. He warned of potential landslides in the area and urged the TCP Minister to take immediate action, threatening to mobilise public demonstrations if necessary.