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The TCP department of Goa has approved seven zoning change proposals, including the conversion of orchard land for various development projects. Inorbit Malls India has received approval for converting 23,497 sqm of orchard and natural cover land for a new mall in the state, subject to forest department clearance and preservation of a heritage trail. One of the larger approvals, involving 1,68,800 sqm of land in Pernem, has raised concerns, as it will be changed from orchard land to settlement, allowing for private residential projects.
The recent approvals will impact 2 lakh sqm in Goa, allowing Inorbit Malls India, a subsidiary of K Raheja Corporation, to proceed with the conversion of orchard land. This land includes a heritage trail that runs through Panelim village, near Old Goa. Earlier this week, the town and country planning (TCP) department gave the go-ahead for seven proposals to change the zoning in the Regional Plan for Goa - 2021 and the Outline Development Plan of Calangute, Candolim Planning Area - 2025. Advertisement
Inorbit Malls, which operates shopping centers in Mumbai, Vadodara, and Cyberabad, is now expanding to Tier II cities. The approval granted to Inorbit Malls India includes the conversion of 23,497 sqm of orchard land and natural cover. The TCP department's approval is contingent on a report from the state forest department and the condition that Inorbit Malls maintain the heritage trail that passes through the property.
While most of the plots approved for zoning changes under Section 39A of the TCP Act are relatively small, the approval for 1,68,800 sqm of land at Pernem, which still requires clearance from the forest department, is expected to draw attention. Natwarlal Shamji Gohil had sought approval for converting 1.7 lakh sqm of land in Corgao, Pernem. This plot, which was previously a mix of orchard and natural cover land, will now be classified as settlement.
The approved plots, which were previously designated as orchard land, cultivable land, irrigation command area, no development zone (NDZ), and natural cover, will now be converted for private residential projects. Chief town planner Rajesh Naik stated that after scrutinizing the proposals, the TCP department presented them to the board for a decision.
The department recommended the change from orchard land with NDZ to settlement, which will open the door for private residential projects. Naik also noted that stakeholders have 30 days to submit their suggestions or concerns in writing regarding the approvals.
The zoning changes approved by the TCP department signal significant developments in Goa's real estate sector, particularly with the expansion of Inorbit Malls into Tier II cities. However, the large-scale conversion of orchard land to settlement areas, particularly in Pernem, has raised eyebrows. The approval process has been accompanied by conditions that address environmental concerns, and stakeholders have a window to voice their objections. The upcoming developments may reshape the region's landscape, balancing urbanisation with heritage conservation.
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