PANJIM: The Save Old Goa Action Committee on Friday submitted 5,000 objection letters Laterite Resort project at Old Goa approved by the Goa Investment Promotion and Facilitation Board (IPB).
These letters were submitted to the Director of Industries, Trade, and Commerce, urging him to reconsider the proposed project at Ela, Old Goa. The objections represent a collective voice from over 5,000 individuals, who have signed petitions expressing their concerns about the environmental and cultural impact of the IPB approved project.
The Save Old Goa Action Committee comprising people from various walks of life, had garnered support from neighbouring villages, adding to the significant opposition.
The Committee will also submit another representation signed by 2,000 individuals to Director of Industries, Trade and Commerce on Friday. Besides this, many environmentalists and activists have submitted their representations
According to the Committee, the proposed project encompasses nearly the entire area within 100 metres No Development Zone of the State Protected Heritage site of Chapel of the Monte. This critical information, vital for public scrutiny has not been adequately presented. Such omission appears to be an attempt to obscure facts and facilities the approval of this controversial project.
The Committee has further stated that the site is surrounded by a monument of State importance to the east, dense natural cover to the north and west, traditional houses to the northwest, and the only access road to the heritage site to the south. The proximity to the Konkan Railway tunnel further complicates matters. Development especially hill cutting activities pose a risk of destabilising the slope and in-turn posing severe damage to Goa’s cultural heritage. The signatories have also feared natural disaster risk, inadequate access and violating UNESCO concerns.
