Expressing satisfaction over the successful demand for public transparency, the Shadow Council for Margao and Margao Block Congress Convener have welcomed the decision to hold a public presentation of the Draft Margao Master Plan 2041.
The presentation is scheduled to take place at the Margao Municipal Council (MMC) Hall on June 19, 2025, at 10:30 AM. Citizens, stakeholders, and concerned residents have been urged to attend and critically examine what the plan proposes—both the benefits and the drawbacks for the city’s future.
Coutinho, speaking on behalf of the Shadow Council, took a strong stand against Margao MLA Digambar Kamat, accusing him of being the “mastermind” behind the plan and attempting to push it through without proper public consultation. “On January 28, 2024, a presentation was made only for MMC councillors, of which barely 25% were in attendance,” Coutinho claimed.
He further criticized a selective private session allegedly held at Hotel Metropole, which he said was attended mostly by real estate developers, rather than Margao’s common citizens. “Public-spirited citizens who tried to attend were turned away,” he added.
Calling for vigilance and civic engagement, the Shadow Council emphasized that true transparency and urban planning accountability must involve public participation, not backroom deals.
The June 19 public session is now seen as a critical opportunity for residents to voice their opinions and scrutinize how the Master Plan aligns with Margao’s long-term interests.