Team Herald
MARGAO: Alarmed over the rapid construction of multi-dwelling units in Varca, the residents at the gram sabha raised apprehensions that the village risks becoming overdeveloped like Calangute unless stricter measures are taken.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you can help support our journalism by adding OHeraldo as a preferred source.
At the meeting presided over by sarpanch Salesiana Fernandes, the gram sabha members questioned whether the Panchayat had conducted a carrying capacity study to assess the village’s ability to sustain the ongoing housing developments. They argued that the unchecked construction of multi-dwelling units could strain local infrastructure and alter the village’s character.
The members suggested that the Panchayat enhance transparency by displaying proposed construction projects on the notice board. They said that this would ensure the residents are informed about upcoming developments.
Concerns were also raised about alleged discrepancies in building permissions, with the locals claiming that the developers are securing approvals from the Town and Country Planning Department by presenting plans for six-metre roads, while the actual width of roads is reportedly only three metres.
Speaking to the mediapersons after the meeting, the Sarpanch addressed the core issue and urged the villagers to refrain from selling land to non-Goans.
“The best way to prevent the proliferation of multi-dwelling units is for people to stop selling land to outsiders,” she said. She added that villagers often hold
the panchayat responsible for issuing construction licences, but fail
to recognise the impact of land sales on the problem.
On a positive note, Fernandes revealed that the panchayat is actively seeking support from local hotels under their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. She outlined several development proposals submitted to hotels, including providing a hearse van, renovating bus stops, installing garbage bins, CCTV cameras, and signages, and funding a generator. Other projects include building a footbridge at Pedda and creating job opportunities for local youth.
The gram sabha emphasised the need for collective efforts to preserve Varca’s identity and ensure sustainable development in
the village.
