MMC directed to extend period for inviting suggestions, objections

MARGAO, JULY 14
In a development that may give temporary relief to the citizens of Margao, the South Goa Consumer Disputes Redressal Forum has directed the Margao Municipal Council to extend the 15-day period for inviting suggestions and objections to the controversial City Development Plan (CDP).
The Margao Municipal Council has set July 19 as the last date for the public to file their suggestions and objections to the CDP. But, following an application filed by former Councilor and President of Bailancho Ekvott, Auda Viegas, the Forum on Wednesday passed an interim order restraining the Civic body from acting upon the stipulated period of 15 days as stated in the publication of notice dated July 5.
“Considering the written submission made by the MMC Chief officer that the copy of the CDP furnished by Ms Rahul Deshpande and Associates is displayed in the Municipal hall for public inspection on July 12 at 3 pm onwards, it is hereby directed that computation of 15 days period for the purpose of public scrutiny shall commence from July 12 at 3 pm onwards till July 27 at 5.45 pm”, Forum President Jagdish Prabhudesai stated.
Prabhudessai has further directed the Margao Municipal Chief Officer to report the Forum on the point of further extension of time as prayed by Viegas on the next date of hearing on July 20 at 3 pm.
The Forum has further directed the Civic body to display copy of the interim order on the notice board for the information and benefit of members of general public.
The CDP has stirred a hornet’s nest in the city with the plan mooting a freeze in the development of the city and building a new business bus at the Ambaji-Davondem belt. Questions are raised how the freeze in development and creation of a new business hub will benefit the common man, even though the plan has mooted transfer of development rights – which many in the know say may benefit the powerful builders lobby.