Pernem, July 25: Tuem Gram Sabha held on Sunday unanimously passed a resolution demanding the repeal of Section 39A of the Goa Town and Country Planning Act, 1974, while also resolving that projects approved under the controversial provision should not be permitted until a carrying capacity study of the village is completed.

Members raised serious concerns over the increasing pressure on the village’s infrastructure and resources due to proposed large-scale residential development. According to the 2011 Census, the village had a population of 2,751, while the present population is estimated to be around 4,000.

The proposed Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) residential project alone is expected to add more than 3,000 people to the village. Gram Sabha members pointed out that several other private residential projects could further increase the population and put additional pressure on existing infrastructure and civic amenities.

The Panchayat had already passed a resolution at its previous Gram Sabha calling for a comprehensive study to determine the carrying capacity of the village.

Taking the matter further, Sunday’s Gram Sabha resolved that no permissions should be granted to projects based on approvals obtained under Section 39A until the carrying capacity study is completed. The Gram Sabha also called for a review of permissions already granted to such projects.

Members maintained that further development should be considered only after assessing whether the village has adequate infrastructure, water, electricity, roads and other essential facilities to sustain the additional population.

Apart from the demand to repeal Section 39A, the Gram Sabha discussed several other issues affecting residents.

Members expressed displeasure over the slow pace of the ongoing underground electrical cabling work and sought steps to expedite its completion. The issue of stray cattle on the roads was also raised, with members expressing concern over the inconvenience and safety risks caused to motorists and residents.