*3rd July 2012* * *
*Press Release* * * *Goa Bachao Abhiyan has lodged a complaint with the Chief Town Planner, Mr S T Puttaraju of illegal land filling behind Heera Petrol Pump Panaji which consists of mangroves. (copy pasted below). The area is shown as Non Development area in both the Panjim ODP and Regional Plan 2021. However massive mangrove filling is taking place despite complaints. * * * *Earlier a delegation of GBA comprisising of Convenor Sabina Martins and Joint Secretarty Miguel Braganza, had called on the CTP to inquire whether any development was happening in that area and for which permission was given. * *Mr Puttaraju stated that no permissions were given and in fact an FIR was lodged in Sept 2010. He also stated that no one has sought NOC for any development in that area.* * * *GBA enquired at the police station and found that the case was closed in August 2011. No action has been taken, as a result more ecosensitive area is now illegally filled. GBA is of the opinion that the authorities have turned a blind eye or abetted. * * * * Copies of the complaint have also been given to the Member Secretary, North Goa PDA under whose jurisdiction the crime is taking place and also to the Member Secretary of Mangrove Society of India who is responsible for the protection of mangroves. The said landfilled which consists of mangroves and salt pans has also violated CRZ rules. GBA has also marked the complaint to the PI of Panjim Town Police station. * * * *GBA is concerned that no action is forth coming from authorities in these cases as a result the parties are emboldened and have undertaken more filling. GBA has demanded that prompt action be taken against violators and directions be given to restore the land to the original staus and make good the land.* * * *Sabina Martins * *Convenor* * * * * *GOA BACHAO ABHIYAN* *C/0 77, Defence Colony, Lane 4, Alto Porvorim, Bardez, Goa- 403521* * Email:[email protected]* *______________________________________________________________*** GBA/2012 /11 03 July, 2012 To Chief Town Planner, Shri S T Puttaraju, Town and Country Planning department Govt of Goa Patto Panjim Sub: Complaint of Land filling in ecosensitive zones behind Heera Petrol Pump,Panjim. Sir, Goa Bachao Abhiyan would like to bring to your notice the illegal land filling happening behind Heera Petrol Pump, Panjim. GBA demands prompt action against those responsible and also directions to restore the area to its original and make good the land. The mangroves are being systematically filled with debris and recently a ‘kuchha” road is making its appearance touching the adjoining main roads. One landfilled pathway is on the road from the roundabout below new Mandovi Bridge to Heera Petrol Pump and another one touching the highway going to Margao from Heera petrol pump. Investigations have revealed that the said land is eco sensitive and shown as non development area on the Panjim ODP Plan as well as in the RP2021. The land is also covered under CRZ regulations where no development is permitted. It has been stated by your office that no proposal is before TCP for development and conversion of the said area. GBA wishes to remind you that an FIR was lodged at the Panjim Poilice station by North Goa Planning and Development Authority on 20th Sept 2010, complaining of land filling of PTS 27 and 56. Enquiries at the police station revealed that the case was closed on 25th August 2011 as “A Final” which means the accused could not be found. Incidentally, the land belongs in parts to the Communidade of Morombi, Madkaikar Realtors and to the Government of Goa. The owners are liable for prosecution in unauthorized land filling or hill cutting under Section 17-A of TCP Act , inserted in 1994 to prevent further damage As no action has been taken, the accused are emboldened and more mangrove area in the said vicinity has been filled. The govt order dated 4thJune2012 has instructed that no development be permitted contrary to RP2021. These areas fall under No Development Zone and the government is duty bound to protect it and ensure restoration. GBA demands immediate arrest of land filling and criminal proceedings initiated against the accused. GBA also demands that the land be restored to its original status and make good the land. We hope you will act promptly. Thanking you, Yours sincerely, Dr Sabina Martins Convenor cc 1) Member secretary, North Goa PDA , Panjim 2) Police Inspector, Panjim Town Police station. 3)Member Secretary, Mangrove society of India, 29 Sagar Colony, Donapaula - Visit www.savegoa.com -- Tel: +91-9767701245 Visit www.savegoa.com
