Team Herald
PANJIM: The Save Old Goa Action Committee members on Friday demand that Heritage Master Plan with demarcation of buffer zone of national and state monuments be announced before the Exposition of 'Goencho Saib'.
Speaking to reporters, they pointed out that illegal activities are taking place at Old Goa which has been declared a UNESCO world heritage site.
Peter Viegas, committee coordinator said, "When the government is saying that it is trying to protect Goa then why the illegalities are being allowed? Exposition is to be held and later feasts. But the government is determined to destroy everything. If the masterplan is not done in a proper manner then we will take the issue before entire Goans."
Vicant D'Silva said, "We know that so many illegalities are taking place in Old Goa. We demand a master plan be released as soon as possible. It the government does not come out with a master plan then it will imply that the government is extending support to those who are indulging in illegalities."
"Even in the gram sabha we questioned why the government is allowing the illegalities. Why this Town and Country Planning (TCP) allowing these things to go on? Why the government is not taking action? Why the government is not supporting those who are raising their voice against the illegalities? It only indicates that the government itself is involved in the illegalities. This has to stop. We want the master plan because this has been happening for so many years," he said.
Evaristo Rodrigues, another committee member, asked why the illegalities are happening when after the government constituted a high-powered committee.
A master plan is a must if the heritage site is to be protected, he said, pointing out that the illegalities have been happening in the area for the last one year.