Goa Govt to Re-examine Real Estate Projects Amid Protests

The Goa government announced an examination of permissions granted to real estate firms DLF and Bhutani Infra in Goa. This comes after local protests citing extensive hill cutting. Town and Country Planning Minister Vishwajit Rane emphasized revoking permits if rule violations are found. AAP MLA Venzy Viegas supports the claims.

The Goa government on Wednesday announced that it would re-examine the permissions granted to real estate firms DLF and Bhutani Infra Project in the state, following protests by local residents. Town and Country Planning Minister Vishwajit Rane made the announcement and emphasized that his department would scrutinize permissions granted to DLF for a villa project at Reis Magos in North Goa district and to Bhutani Infra's project at Sancoale in South Goa district. Permits will be revoked if there are violations of rules, Rane stated.

Residents have voiced strong opposition to these projects, alleging massive hill cutting. AAP MLA Venzy Viegas recently visited the DLF project site and contended that both companies were breaching Town and Country planning laws.

Rane clarified that his department had not issued new permissions for hill cutting in the last six months, asserting that ongoing works conform to previously granted permissions. Strengthening laws against hill cutting is a priority, and discussions with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant will be initiated soon. Rane also mentioned the need to verify social media claims about hill cutting as legal permissions might already be in place.

(With inputs from agencies.)