PANAJI
Minister for Town & Country Planning Vishwajit Rane remained non-committal on the Regional Plan urging the legislators to understand and deliberate on the issue.
Several legislators demanded to restrict land purchases by outsiders which has escalated land rates and reduce property prices, while discussing TCP portfolio.
“The question is whether to have a Regional Plan or not. Here governments have gone on the Regional Plan. I making clear… when you appoint a consultant, they go on their technology like broad roads, etc which doesn't fit our definition of the State and then it becomes a problem. We have to understand, sit down and deliberate what is needed for Goa," he said, refusing to give a clear reply to demands for new RP in Goa.
The minister further assured the House that all the points raised by the MLAs have been noted down each of which will be addressed.
During the discussion, GFP MLA Vijai Sardesai insisted on the need for the Regional Plan, arguing that its absence has led to unplanned development. “There has to be a Regional Plan. He (Rane) may not like it, but he has to implement it. Start with taluka-wise Plans,” he added.
AAP MLA Venzy Veigas also advocated for the Plan stressing the importance of public consultation and confidence. “Whether it's RP 2031, 2041, or 2051, the government must involve the public at the time of drafting the Plan. Land prices should be reduced so that the common Goans can afford to purchase,” he stated.
In his reply, the minister highlighted that the only comprehensive Regional Plan was developed by Kirloskar. "The Plan has always been controversial but now, for the first time, a consultant has been appointed for the Regional Plan. We have also asked them to assist us with PDAs,” the minister added.
Regarding alleged unplanned development in Pomburpa, the minister assured the House that the village would be designated a no-development zone with a notification prohibiting any hill cutting to be issued soon. "Pomburpa hill is very steep... It will be notified as a No Development area. No development should take place by cutting down the hills,” he said.
Regarding the viral photos of hill cutting in Priol, Rane stated that no permissions were granted by any of his departments, and an FIR has been registered against the violators.
Meanwhile, earlier Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao alleged massive land conversions in catchment areas and command areas, under the pretext of correction of zones.
