MARGAO, JAN 6
If PWD Minister, Churchill Alemao’s dream Navelim-Benaulim bridge over River Sal is awaiting a nod from the Union Environment Ministry, PWD’s ambitious plan to construct a 10.5 km mining bypass from Codli to Panchawadi costing over Rs 26.92 crore has been grounded by the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority.
In fact, the GCZMA has told PWD Executive Engineer, Ponda division to forthwith withdraw the tender notice since the CRZ clearance dated January 9, 2003 is no longer valid. “You are required to stop all further action in this matter. You are also required to forthwith withdraw the tender notice in this case. No further action should be initiated for construction of the road without obtaining prior approval from this office”, asserted GCZMA Member Secretary Michael D’Souza.
D’Souza’s letter dated December 14 to the PWD Executive Engineer categorically stated that the CRZ approval and clearance dated January 9, 2003 is not longer valid and the same has ceased on January 9, 2008 in terms of Clause 3 (2) (ia) of the CRZ notification, 1991.
That’s not all. D’Souza further stated “it is understood that the entire area is eco-sensitive in nature as it has large mangrove growth and recently the Forest department has initiated action for illegal felling of mangroves in the said area. This area with densely covered mangroves would be classified locally as CRZ-I area”.
The GCZMA action comes following a representation made by the Panchwadi Bachao Samiti which has opposed construction of the mining road at the behest of a mining company.
