Goa Government to Revoke Bhutani Project if Permissions Found Improper: CM Pramod Sawant

In a significant development in Goa, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has instructed the State’s Town and Country Planning (TCP) minister Vishwajit Rane to investigate and, if necessary, cancel the controversial Bhutani project at Sancoale. This directive comes after a wave of public protests and growing opposition to the project, which has been a topic of concern for the people of Goa. If permissions granted to the project are found to be improper, Sawant has made it clear that the government will revoke the approvals and scrap the project.

Public Outrage Over the Bhutani Project

The Bhutani project, a mega housing development at Sancoale, has drawn increasing public attention in recent weeks, with locals raising questions about the legality of the approvals granted. Several protests have erupted over what the citizens perceive as the negative environmental and social impacts of such a large-scale development in the area. The issue was also discussed during the recently concluded monsoon session of the Goa assembly, further highlighting its importance.

Concerns have particularly been raised regarding land conversion approvals, environmental clearances, and other permissions. Various documents have surfaced on social media that suggest irregularities in the processes, further intensifying the agitation. In response to these concerns, CM Sawant acknowledged the situation and emphasized the need for due diligence.

CM Sawant's Stand on Interdepartmental Permissions

Chief Minister Sawant, during a media interaction, stated that no files related to major or minor development projects typically come to his office or the departments under his direct purview. However, given the scope of the Bhutani project and its potential ramifications, Sawant has taken an active interest in the case. 

The Chief Minister has suggested to TCP minister Rane that all files related to permissions for mega projects should be forwarded to his office for review. He argued that these large-scale projects require coordination between various departments, including water supply, sewerage treatment, environmental clearance, and land use approvals. By bringing the files to the Chief Minister's attention, Sawant believes it would ensure better oversight and reduce the possibility of approvals being granted without proper scrutiny.

Project’s Roots Go Back to 2007

An interesting aspect of the Bhutani project is its long history. According to CM Sawant, documents circulating on social media indicate that the issue of permissions for this project dates back to 2007, raising questions about whether approvals granted in the past were legitimate. While the exact nature of the irregularities has not yet been clarified, the Chief Minister has instructed the TCP department to investigate the matter thoroughly.

CM Sawant also emphasized that any project found to have improper land conversion, environmental clearance, or other approvals would face revocation of permissions and cancellation. He maintained a firm stance, stating that the government would not allow projects that cause harm to the people of Goa.

Steering Committee Meeting

CM Sawant also announced his intention to convene a long-overdue meeting of the TCP Steering Committee. The steering committee, which has not met in quite some time, plays a crucial role in overseeing town and country planning in Goa. By calling a meeting of the committee, he aims to ensure that future projects, especially mega developments, are subjected to more stringent checks.

As the Chairman of the committee, the Chief Minister plans to push for a new policy where permissions for mega projects, particularly those requiring interdepartmental coordination, are routed through his office. Sawant emphasized that the Bhutani project is just one of several large developments that require a holistic approach involving multiple government agencies.

The Government's Approach to Large-Scale Projects

CM Sawant’s proactive stance on the Bhutani project is seen as part of a broader approach to address public concerns about large-scale developments in Goa. Over the past few years, Goa has witnessed a boom in real estate and infrastructure projects, but many of these have been marred by allegations of irregularities, environmental concerns, and lack of proper consultation with local communities.

The Chief Minister’s directive to scrutinise the Bhutani project is an acknowledgment that, while development is essential, it must not come at the expense of transparency and proper governance. By calling for greater oversight and accountability, Sawant is seeking to restore public confidence in the government's ability to manage large projects without compromising the interests of the people.

Public Reaction and Future Developments

The announcement has sparked mixed reactions among the people. While some see it as a positive move by the government to address their concerns, others remain skeptical about whether the review will result in the project being scrapped. There are also concerns about the potential economic implications of halting such a large-scale project, especially for the real estate sector in Goa.

As the investigation into the Bhutani project unfolds, all eyes will be on the TCP department and its handling of the case. The outcome of this inquiry will likely set a precedent for how future mega projects are handled in Goa, especially with regard to the processes of approval and the government's willingness to act in the face of public opposition.