PANJIM: The Indian Institute of Architects (IIA)- Goa Chapter has pointed out to several anomalies in the draft outline development plan (ODP) for Panjim, which includes new public roads without feasibility, non identification of open spaces and high floor area ratio (FAR) for properties on sloping land.
IIA Goa Chapter Chairman Manguesh Prabhugaonkar in his letter to North Goa Planning and Development Authority (NGPDA) Member Secretary R Pandita has suggested that the requirements of the Smart City concept be included into the draft ODP.
“The outline development plans for the current urban areas in questions for all our towns, are facing challenges of urbanisation posing threats to the planning areas with reference to existing built environment and infrastructural facilities,” Prabhugaonkar said.
He said there are a number of anomalies visible in the draft ODP which need to be corrected. “It is seen that high FAR has been proposed for properties on sloping lands, some of which are too steep to be considered feasible for constructions. PDA needs to study the gradients of such sites and rectify all anomalies,” Prabhugaonkar said.
“Similarly, new public roads are proposed which do not have feasible road gradient. Also road access to number of properties have been indicated although they have been re-assigned higher FAR,” Chairman said.
Prabhugaonkar also pointed out that the number of open spaces is not indicated while a few occupied spaces are represented as recreational.
IIA-Goa chapter, has, however, welcomed the concept of special settlement zone and special commercial zone but has demanded that the methodology of identifying the blocks or zones required to be thought of on a holistic view point looking to aspects of urban reforms.
“The qualifying criteria for special zones linked to the redevelopment urban domains needs to be spelt clearly to facilitate appropriate planning, placement and infrastructure requirements,” Prabhugaonkar said.
