The gram sabha also discussed the pending developmental projects in the village. Sarpanch Ramakant Borkar claimed that the panchayat has been facing issues due to lack of cooperation from the Mormugao Block Development Officer (BDO), who refused to clear their proposals for repair works of roads, gutters and other existing infrastructure projects.
“The BDO had blocked our files with the claim that we need to provide NOCs of the concerned owners to carry out repairs. These gutters, roads and infrastructure projects were constructed two decades ago. How we are supposed to get an NOC now? We have taken up the issue with the authorities with the help of local MLA Alina Saldanha,” said Borkar.
Borkar also claimed that the Kala Bhawan project, which was built on panchayat land at a cost of over Rs 20 crore, has become a white elephant. The members opined that the sarpanch should move an application asking the government to hand over the project to them.
“We have given 21,000 square metres of land for the project. If the government hands over the project to us, we will make sure that the project, which is blocked due to funds, will be put to good use. We will also get some rent in return,” said a member.
The gram sabha also raised serious concerns over the garbage problems in the village, mainly the use of plastic. It was decided to approach the government for a blanket ban on the use of plastic in the village.
The gram sabha also passed resolutions to revise the panchayat timings from 10 am to 9.30 pm, with 10 am to 9.30 am with Saturday as half-day, and to request Alina to push for water sport projects at Bandolem lake.
Regarding the 4G tower installed beside the NH17 in Sancoale, Borkar assured that the panchayat will not give any permission for the same and will ask the company to relocate the tower to an area where it will not create hurdles for motorists.
Regarding the misuse of Khazan land, member Laurence Fernandes said that due to flooding near Shantadurga temple, seven farmers were unable to cultivate their fields. Borkar assured to approach the Mormugao Mamlatdar to inspect the site and provide relief to the farmers.
Former deputy speaker Simon D’Souza informed that there was a standing gram sabha resolution to seek special status in the form of special grants for the development of Sancoale, which has become a world-famous heritage site thanks to Saint Joseph Vaz, who started his religious life here. He opined that the panchayat follow up the resolution and get it fulfilled.
