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CALANGUTE: Calangute MLA Michael Lobo urged the Goa government to convince the central environment ministry to regularize the houses in Goa’s coastal villages before the same were demolished. He felt the government had not done enough for the last three years despite forming a committee to look into the issue.
Lobo was addressing a press conference at his Calangute office on Saturday. He said, “As per the 1991 CRZ notification, the coastal villagers were permitted to reconstruct or repair their houses within the permissible plinth level in the 0-200 meters HTL. The traditional fishermen accordingly carried out the repairs or reconstruction based on the needs of their growing families. The coastal villages also took up other tourism-related businesses like restaurants, guest houses, taverns, etc. However, the same repairs or reconstruction were termed irregular due to a clause that stated only traditional businesses would be permitted. The Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority received many complaints pertaining to CRZ violations during 1991-2011, which included the extended houses of traditional inhabitants.”
He continued, “The late Matanhy Saldanha took up the regularization issue; he sought a change in the clause, which would also include other tourism-related business. The then Central Minister for Environment Jairam Ramesh visited Goa to understand the ground reality, but the matter remained pending. When BJP came to power in Goa, a committee chaired by the chief minister was formed, comprising of the environment minister and coastal MLAs. However, there was no subsequent follow-up. If we do not raise the matter with the central government immediately, the traditional fishermen’s houses could be demolished.”
Lobo said he would take up the matter with the CM and insist on him to lead a delegation to Delhi to pursue the matter.
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Parts of Calangute get free WiFi
Calangute MLA Michael Lobo inaugurated the free WiFi facility for locals as wells as tourists visiting the Calangute constituency. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony in Calangute on Saturday, he said, “I am happy to inaugurate the WiFi connectivity that will help the youth of Calangute constituency. Our Prime Minister has two visions for India: Swachh Bharat and Digital India through internet connectivity. Our digital initiative will help people connect, communicate and keep track of daily happenings.”
He continued, “I am happy that Calangute constituency has taken the lead for ‘Digital India – Digital Goa’.”
Calangute ZP member Shawn Martins outlined the WiFi zones. He said the entire constituency would have free WiFi within two years.
