The Loutolim gram sabha on Sunday sent a strong message to authorities as villagers condemned the Investment Promotion Board (IPB) for granting project clearances within the panchayat’s jurisdiction without consulting the local body.
In a meeting marked by intense discussions, residents also opposed coal transportation through Goa and rejected the proposed new Borim bridge, warning that such projects threaten the environment and traditional agricultural lands.
Chaired by Sarpanch Raylon Fernandes, the gram sabha passed multiple resolutions reflecting growing frustration over decisions taken at higher levels of governance without grassroots consent.
One of the key resolutions included the demand to revoke the NOC earlier issued for the controversial cricket stadium project within Loutolim limits. Villagers argued that large-scale constructions are being introduced under the guise of development while ignoring environmental and social costs.
Residents criticised the manner in which the IPB functions, alleging that it routinely issues clearances with little regard for local sentiment or ecological impact. They said bypassing the panchayat undermines the purpose of decentralised governance.
Gram sabha member Xavier Fernandes warned that coal transportation would have disastrous consequences for Goa’s environment.
“Coal transportation will destroy the environment. The people of Goa do not want their land, air, and rivers polluted while somebody else benefits at their expense,” he said, emphasising the community’s commitment to safeguarding Goa’s natural beauty.
Sarpanch Raylon Fernandes informed villagers that the panchayat will formally write to the IPB questioning the approvals granted in Loutolim without consultation.
“It has been resolved to revoke the permission for the cricket stadium project. We have also opposed the proposed new Borim bridge, which will destroy khazan land and severely affect agricultural activities,” he stated.
Villagers reiterated that the proposed Borim bridge poses a major threat to the traditional khazan ecosystem — a centuries-old reclaimed agricultural landscape unique to Goa. They said ecologically sensitive areas cannot be sacrificed for infrastructure projects that offer minimal benefit to local communities.
