PANAJI: In response to local protests, the town and country planning department issued a show cause notice and stop work order to the Carambolim panchayat on Tuesday. This halts construction of a large housing project that includes residential flats, commercial shops, a swimming pool, and a boundary wall until further notice, as reported by Lisa Monteiro.
The department’s notice indicated that during a joint inspection on Monday, villagers raised concerns about the proximity of the proposed building to the existing crematorium, stating it did not comply with regulations.
Villagers also highlighted that the planned access roads of 15m and 10m on the southern and western sides were not viable according to current site conditions.
Deputy town planner Manguirish N Verenkar instructed the panchayat to provide an explanation within seven working days regarding why the technical clearance granted on January 14, 2025, should not be revoked.
TCP Minister Vishwajit Rane stated, “Following a site inspection prompted by formal complaints, compliance and site condition issues were documented. Therefore, all construction activity will be immediately halted until further notice. Development in Goa will adhere strictly to regulations.”
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, responding to concerns raised by MLA Viresh Borkar, has directed Rane to review project approvals and identify any officials liable for failures.
On Monday, Carambolim residents held a day-long protest, organized by Revolutionary Goans, outside the TCP department’s office against the housing project. Locals claimed that the approved plans indicated a 5.5m road access, but on-site it measured only 3.5m. Attempts by protesters to enter the TCP office were blocked by police.
“The chief town planner approves files but asserts she has no authority. They can halt work when violations or false documents arise,” said RG president Manoj Parab, accusing Rane of favoring outside builders.
RG MLA Viresh Borkar noted that the project would further burden the village’s already stretched infrastructure. Residents conducted a sit-in at the office gate, demanding their concerns be recognized and refusing to leave without assurances.
