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The Goa state government's recent actions are causing alarm as they embark on an ambitious land conversion spree, resulting in the conversion of 1.86 lakh square meters of the state's natural cover into settlements.
The concerning measure is being justified as reforms, even though the guidelines for making changes and modifications to the Zonal Plan have not yet been notified, as stated in article 17 (2) of the Town and Country Planning (TCP) Department.
Controversial Goa land settlement
The TCP department has made a controversial decision to convert a total of 186,791 square meters of green land across the state. This conversion involves 83,385 square meters of natural cover, 81,425 square meters of landscaped land, and 21,981 square meters of paddy fields.
Alarming reports have recently surfaced, indicating that the TCP department has already approved approximately 26 applications. These approvals supposedly stem from the need to rectify errors and inconsistencies found in the Proposed Zoning Rules 2023. What is concerning is that these applications were initiated as early as March, leading to questions about the hasty and questionable nature of these approvals.
The village of Morjim converted a staggering 64,000 square meters of land from gardens to townships.
Furthermore, settlements converted an alarming 63,000 square meters of natural cover in Assagao village. Similarly, observers noted the conversion of 16,585 square meters of green land in Benaulim village.
Department guidelines for zoning modifications
Fueling the existing controversy, the TCP department has recently released guidelines for zoning modifications based on Section 17(2) of the TCP Act 1974. These guidelines have implemented retrospectively since March 27, 2023, surprisingly, which has given rise to further suspicions.
Primarily, these guidelines aim to rectify "unintentional errors" within the zoning plan, encompassing issues like unaccounted existing structures, commitments overlooked in the plan, misconstrued right-of-way, and erroneous assessment of areas classified as "non-sloping" due to slopes measuring less than 25 per cent.
The TCP department has formed a dedicated committee comprising of experts who will thoroughly evaluate the proposals and make decisions in accordance with the established guidelines. Nevertheless, concerns regarding transparency and accountability are being caused by the efficiency and expeditiousness with which the proposals have been processed.
Environmental groups challenge land conversion
In light of the concerning circumstances, three environmental organizations—Goa Foundation, Khazan Society of Goa, and Goa Bachao Abhiyan (GBA)—have collectively initiated a new Public Interest Litigation (PIL) at the Bombay High Court in Goa. This PIL aims to challenge the recently incorporated Section 17(2) of the Goa Urban and Rural Planning Act 1974, which imposes limitations on impromptu and arbitrary conversions of privately owned land into regional planning areas.
The petitioners argue that this particular provision not only violates constitutional principles but also facilitates hasty alterations in dubious areas.
The situation sparked public outrage and sparked heated debate over the state government's approach to land conversion and protection of Goa's natural resources. The outcome of the PIL and the decisions made by the expert committee will undoubtedly have far-reaching consequences for future development and conservation efforts in the state.
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