Raising serious concerns over unchecked housing development, villagers at the gram sabha of Curtorim Village Panchayat demanded a follow-up report on a previously controversial housing project and called for a clear action plan to assess the carrying capacity of the village.
The issue of large-scale residential projects without proper environmental evaluation dominated the discussion, with locals accusing the Panchayat of ignoring long-term implications.
“What is observed is that the Panchayat seems more interested in granting permissions to housing projects, without considering environmental impact or the effects on the local community,” said former Zilla Panchayat member Moreno Rebello.
Villagers insisted that the Panchayat take a more serious and transparent approach to such developments, especially in light of rising concerns about overburdened infrastructure and threats to the ecological balance of the area.
Concerns were also raised about another proposed housing project, with residents demanding clarity on whether necessary clearances and consultations had been conducted.
They urged the panchayat to involve citizens in the decision-making process and to prioritize sustainable development over unregulated construction.
In addition to the development issues, several other matters were discussed during the gram sabha, though the housing controversy remained the key focus, reflecting the growing unease among locals about the pace and nature of urbanisation in Curtorim.
The villagers concluded by reiterating the need for accountability, transparency, and long-term planning, urging the Panchayat to take a stand that reflects the interests of the people and the environment.