In a significant decision responding to public outcry, the Goa government has revoked a provisional order that allowed a major change in land use on the ecologically sensitive Bhatwadi hills in Arambol. The move comes after sustained protests by local residents who feared the development would destroy their water sources and livelihood.
Minister Announces Cancellation Following Public Review
Town and Country Planning (TCP) Minister Vishwajit Rane made the announcement on Wednesday via his verified social media account. He stated that his department has cancelled the provisional permission granted for the change of zone in Arambol. Rane clarified that the official notification formalizing this cancellation will be issued shortly.
The minister explained that the decision was taken after a careful review, initiated when the people of Arambol met him and shared their deep-seated concerns. "The decision was taken in their interest," Rane posted, assuring the residents of Arambol and Pernem that their sentiments would always be respected.
Roots of the Protest: Water, Livelihood, and Ecology
The controversy erupted when residents of Varchawada in Arambol launched a protest on Sunday. They were opposing the change of zone to 'settlement' for a massive land parcel exceeding 3.05 lakh square meters covering the Bhatwadi hills. The residents' fears were multifaceted and deeply connected to their survival.
The entire land area in question comprises vital green cover. Locals argued that any construction on these hills would directly threaten the natural springs and water sources that feed the villages in the valley below. With the community largely dependent on horticulture for their livelihood, the potential drying up of water sources posed an existential threat.
Protesters emphasized that half of Arambol village is geographically defined by the Bhatwadi hills. Replacing its lush greenery with concrete, they warned, would irreversibly alter the village's entire ecosystem, causing long-term environmental damage.
Political Support and Assurances
The residents' cause found strong political backing even before the minister's announcement. Local MLA Jit Arolkar had openly supported the demand to reverse the zone change. Furthermore, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant had assured villagers of corrective action after they met him with a formal representation of their grievances.
In his statement, Minister Rane struck a conciliatory tone, expressing his commitment to a balanced approach. "With the blessings of Shree Devi Bhagwati, I draw strength to continue serving the people... I will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to ensure a balanced approach towards health, holistic development, environmental protection and the overall well-being of the people," he said.
The Path Forward and Continued Vigilance
Despite the government's announcement, the protesting residents have declared their intention to continue their agitation until the official notification reversing the zone change is formally issued by the government. Their stance highlights a cautious optimism and a determination to see the promise fulfilled on paper.
This episode underscores the growing tension between development plans and environmental conservation in coastal Goa. It also demonstrates the power of community mobilization in influencing policy decisions related to land use and ecological preservation in sensitive zones.
