Bicholim:
Serious allegations of illegal land subdivision, environmental violations, and procedural lapses have surfaced in Karapur village of Bicholim taluka, with local residents formally demanding immediate suspension of all permissions granted for a large-scale real estate project.

In a detailed representation submitted to the North Goa Collector, Town and Country Planning (TCP) Department, WRD authorities, and the Karapur-Sarvan Village Panchayat, three residents—Siddhesh Tari, Pritesh Salgaonkar, and Swapnesh Sherlekar—have sought revocation of the Conversion Sanad, provisional NOC, and development permissions issued for Survey No. 148/0.

Allegations of Illegal Subdivision

The complaint states that the project proposes subdivision into 1,388 plots ranging between 116 to 170 sq. metres, allegedly violating the minimum plot size requirement of 225 sq. metres under existing regulations.

While relaxations exist under affordable housing policies, the applicants claim that the project does not qualify, alleging it is a commercial real estate venture marketed to buyers outside Goa, with plots reportedly priced above ₹95 lakh.

Environmental Clearance Bypassed

The representation further alleges that permissions were granted for a total area of over 4.26 lakh sq. metres, without obtaining mandatory Environmental Clearance, which is required for projects exceeding 20,000 sq. metres.

This, the complainants argue, is a serious violation of environmental norms, potentially impacting ecological balance and public health.

Impact on Agricultural Land and Tenants

The residents have also raised concerns about 16 tenanted agricultural properties located within the project area, which may be landlocked due to lack of access roads.

They allege that authorities have failed to consider the rights and livelihoods of these tenants.

Irrigation Command Area Under Threat

The land in question is reportedly part of the Anjunem Irrigation Project command area, and any conversion to non-agricultural use could undermine irrigation potential and contradict government agricultural sustainability goals.

Infrastructure and Social Concerns

The representation highlights inadequate infrastructure in the region, citing irregular water supply, power fluctuations, and absence of proper waste management systems.

It warns that the project could lead to massive urban sprawl, strain resources, and trigger demographic and socio-cultural changes in the rural belt.

Demand for Immediate Action

The complainants have urged authorities to:

Revoke all permissions after due hearing

Conduct a detailed investigation into procedural lapses

Protect the Right to Life of villagers

Safeguard tenant rights and ensure access roads

Prevent misuse of affordable housing provisions

Copies of the representation have also been marked to civil society organisations including the Goa Foundation, United Goans Foundation, and Goa Bachao Abhiyan.