Former MLA Deepak Dhavalikar has applied for the conversion of a large piece of land measuring @ 393,100 square metres in an extremely eco-sensitive area. 15 other MLAs have also applied for zone conversions. No wonder that not a single ruling party MLA raised the burning issue of the repeal of Section 39A in the recent assembly session, each one is equally complicit in the destruction of Goa. Such zones are environmentally protected areas where construction and development activities are restricted to protect forests, wildlife, and natural resources. The proposal for land use change on such a large scale has alarmed environmentalists and the public, as eco-sensitive zones are meant to limit human interference and preserve ecological balance. Any development in these areas requires strict approvals and clearances from the authorities. Civil society is now opposing such criminal intent considering the deleterious impact it could have on Goa’s fragile ecology. The people have to come on the streets if Goa or whatever is left of it is to be saved for future generations. The politicians, hand in glove with the real estate lobby will only be laughing all the way to the bank after butchering Goa.
