In June 2024, Goa's Town and Country Planning department approved zoning changes for six land plots, invoking Section 39A of the Goa Town and Country Planning Act. This provision allows the chief town planner to modify regional plans without public consultation, aiming to expedite land conversions. Critics raise concerns about transparency and potential environmental impact, especially regarding four plots in Pernem where 21% of green cover might be converted. The decision, open for public objections for 30 days, underscores the tension between development and responsible land use in Goa.
Goa's Town and Country Planning department (TCP) has ignited controversy with its recent approval to change the zoning of six plots of land. This decision, made in June 2024, allows the plots to be used for purposes different from what was originally designated in official plans.
The department utilised a new provision, Section 39A of the Goa Town and Country Planning Act, to make these changes. This section grants significant power to the chief town planner, allowing them to modify regional plans and development outlines (ODPs) without the usual public consultation process. While the stated aim is to expedite land conversions, the move has raised concerns about transparency and potential environmental impact.
Specific details surrounding the plots themselves remain scarce. The notification offers no information on the size of the land converted (in square metres), the original zoning classifications, or the ownership of the plots. This lack of transparency has fueled public suspicion, particularly regarding four plots located in Pernem. Here, the department reportedly attempted to convert a substantial portion (21%) of the designated green cover, raising alarms about potential environmental degradation.
The notification does provide a 30-day window for residents to file objections and suggestions. However, critics argue that this timeframe is insufficient for thorough public scrutiny, especially considering the limited information available.
Following the 30-day period, the department will issue a final decision on the zone changes. The outcome will be closely monitored, with implications for future land use decisions in Goa. This case highlights the ongoing tension between streamlining development processes and ensuring responsible use of land resources.
Goa's Town and Country Planning Act mandates a fee structure for zone conversions under Section 39A. The processing fee ranges from INR 500 to INR 50,000 depending on the total area of the plot being converted. Additionally, a separate zone change fee applies, ranging from INR 50 to INR 400 per square metre based on the type of zone alteration sought.
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