Loliem comunidade nods for projects spark debate
The approval for land allotment of a number of development projects by the Loliem-Polem comunidade last Sunday has sparked intense debate about the future of the ecologically-sensitive Loliem plateau in Canacona.
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In the wake of the July 6 extraordinary general body meeting that greenlighted projects including a 100MW solar power plant by Concord Innovations requiring 15 lakh sqm, a sainik school by Vadenagar Shikshan Seva Mandal seeking 50,000sqm, and tourist amenities by Goa Tourism Development Corporation, residents and comunidade office-bearers present starkly contrasting visions for the development of the village.
Om Prabhugaonkar, a Poinguinim-based architect, has emerged as a vocal critic of the 'hastily-granted' approvals. 'The comunidade is a custodian of land, not its owner,' he said, arguing that any development decisions should be backed by comprehensive research, data, and community participation.
He expressed disapproval over the manner in which he was 'silenced' at the July 6 meeting by president Vishwajit Varik, who dismissed his concerns as 'criticism' driven by 'vested interest'.
'We need to say a big no to speculative and private projects which have money-making as the primary objective,' said Prabhugaonkar. He argued that raising ecological concerns shouldn't be branded as having 'vested interests', particularly when climate change concerns are real.
On the other hand, Varik defended the approved projects as essential for the economic growth of the village. 'We're committed to striking a balance between development and preservation,' he said, pointing out that only 13% of comunidade land has been allocated for development projects while ensuring 'a significant portion is reserved for posterity and future generations'.
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Varik's vision encompasses 'sustainable employment opportunities, agri-tourism initiatives, and skill development programs'. 'Entire paddy fields in Loliem village have not been cultivated for decades, there's no motivation for youth to start agriculture,' he said.
'We're excited about the potential of projects like the film city (10 lakh sqm) to create employment opportunities for local youth,' said Varik, positioning the comunidade as protecting land from encroachment while creating opportunities.
The Loliem gram sabha has already passed resolutions to conserve the plateau, specifically to preserve water resources, cattle grazing lands, agriculture, forest produce, wildlife, and biodiversity.
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