Tensions rise over mega projects, migrants, tenders at Pomburpa

Tensions rise over mega projects, migrants, tenders at Pomburpa
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The Pomburpa gram sabha on Sunday witnessed noisy scenes as villagers raised multiple concerns ranging from tenant verification to mega projects, illegal constructions, and alleged irregularities in awarding development works.

The issue of tenant verification dominated discussions, with villagers demanding greater accountability from the panchayat regarding the presence of migrants. One villager said he had repeatedly raised the matter in several gram sabhas, urging the panchayat to provide a complete list of migrants.

Although the panchayat recently shared a list for the wards of Olaulim and Aarao, it only contained the names of house owners and not the migrants themselves. “Without the names of the migrants, we cannot do anything — yet the panchayat only gives us the house owners’ list while over 400 to 500 migrants live in our village unchecked,” a villager remarked.

A resolution was passed authorising the sarpanch, panch members, and some villagers to meet the Police Inspector at Mapusa to explore how the issue can be addressed.

The meeting also saw strong objections over mega projects and alleged illegal construction. Villagers claimed that while permissions were granted only for construction, trees were being cut illegally. They demanded that the panchayat should not only issue permissions but also carry out site inspections.

“Our village is being overrun by mega projects, illegal works, and unchecked migrant influx — while our basic needs of water, power, and roads are ignored, the panchayat washes its hands and sides with the builders’ lobby,” member Dhiren Phadte said.

Some members suggested that the panchayat adopt policies similar to Parra panchayat, which has framed safeguards against unchecked projects. Concerns were also raised about approvals granted for projects without proper access roads.

Another major point of contention was the awarding of development works. Villagers demanded details of projects, contractors, and financial allocations. According to residents, nearly 90% of the village’s works, amounting to over ₹1 crore, had been carried out by a single contractor.

A resolution was also proposed to approach the Vigilance Department to investigate the matter. “Ninety percent of the works are being done by one contractor. We will approach Vigilance to find out why all tenders are going to the same person,” a villager added.

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