Puttaraju: I don’t think I should comment on the government’s decision. The previous chief minister (Manohar Parrikar) had time and again clarified giving reasons why he had not finalized the Regional Plan.
He had explained even in the Goa Assembly on the delay. Personally I also feel that the Regional Plan has to be finalized. But then mining, on which half the economy depends, is still facing issues.
Don’t you think this is a priority? Forget about the miners. The people who work in mines and those who are indirectly dependent on mining are the main sufferers.
The multiplier effect is a major problem. If the government wants to deal with mining on priority then I think it is right.
Herald: There have been accusations that the existence of two plans and the way they are implemented allows plenty of scope for illegalities and irregularities. What do you have to say about this?
Puttaraju: If you really look for low density development, the current situation which is based on the decision of the government issued through a circular on 4/6 takes care of two major aspects. When you say you have to refer to both plans two things are assumed.
Those areas that are settlement as far as 2001 plan are subsequently protected. But within this there is a problem – there are allegations that some things are coming up in those places.
But these were passed before this plan came into force.
When we say we used land use plan 2001 and 2021, it discounts those which were settlement earlier but not settlement now and settlement now and not settlement earlier.
In fact it safeguards both the areas. It is a better situation. By using both plans we are saving both sides.
Herald: There have been accusations that the department is not taking actions against illegalities even when brought to its notice. How do you respond to that?
Puttaraju: Frankly speaking, for unauthorised constructions and violations we have limited powers; except in PDA areas.
Sections 51, 52, and 53 are not exercisable in TCP areas but only in PDA areas. In fact in the past two years we have been thinking of setting up an authority with separate manpower to deal with this.
