TEAM HERALD
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PANJIM: The House Committee constituted to look into the issue of dwelling units facing demolition within CRZ, were explained the 2011 Act and its application, at its first meeting, Monday even as its members felt that those units existing prior to 1991 should be protected.
The meeting was chaired by Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar. Environment Minister Alina Saldanha, MLAs representing coastal belt ~Benjamin Silva, and Michael Lobo, GCZMA representatives ~Chairman R K Varma and Member Secretary Levinson Martins were present.
Close to a 1000 units along Goa’s coastline have presently got High Court notices for violating CRZ rules.
Members from affected areas are of the view that steps have to be taken to protect dwelling units which have been in existence prior to 1991, with an added rider that dwelling units which have extended and expanded for commercial purpose should also be protected.
The amended CRZ notification of 2012 only speaks of protecting ‘traditional dwelling units’ but certain members felt that even though dwelling units which have been extended or expanded for commercial purpose by the traditional fishermen who have set up guesthouses, small eateries, souvenir shops should be given protection.
Sources say that while the environment minister strongly insisted on protection of traditional dwelling units, MLA Michael Lobo wanted to extend the scope of CRZ protection to dwelling cum commercial units.
