Team Herald
QUEPEM: The Xeldem gram sabha was marked by intense discussions surrounding several pressing issues affecting the local community. Among the key topics were the long-pending audit of the Xeldem Panchayat, illegal hill cutting, unlawful plotting, and encroachment of open spaces within the Goa Housing Board area. Locals expressed frustration over the Panchayat’s perceived inaction regarding these matters.
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The rampant hill cutting at Shivnagar, specifically on survey number 122/1C, was highlighted. Villagers argued that noted that the area, rich in biodiversity, has suffered extensive vegetation loss, with hills being cut down by over 10 metres.
It was reported that heavy machinery was illegally transported through internal roads of the Goa Housing Board, prompting gram sabha members to resolve to revoke the permission granted by the Xeldem Panchayat.
Another critical issue discussed was the illegal development of plots in Gonval Ward. Former Panchayat member Amey Chimulkar presented documentation revealing the existence of 52 illegal plots, some of which encroach on orchard land. Chimulkar urged the panchayat to take swift and decisive action against these illegal activities, which include encroachment, hill cutting, and plotting.
James Fernandes, another villager, raised concerns about encroachment on open spaces that were originally designated for the Goa Housing Board. He alleged that the same individual responsible for the extensive hill cutting had encroached upon these areas.
Prashant Desai questioned the panchayat about the pending audit, which has been unresolved for the past three years. He accused the former secretary of negligence and called for immediate action to complete the audit.
In response to the concerns raised, Sarpanch Gauri Gawas Desai assured attendees that the audit process had already commenced and would be completed by December. Regarding the illegal activities discussed, she stated that the Panchayat would conduct inspections on encroachments.
However, she clarified that the issue of hill cutting falls under the jurisdiction of the Quepem Deputy Collector, emphasising that the Panchayat does not hold authority in this matter.
