No conversion of eco sensitive zones: CM
GOANEWS DESK, PANAJI | 09 December 2010 20:23 IST
Chief Minister Digambar Kamat has clarified that all the 'green' land from fields to forests falling under Eco Sensitive Zones will not be converted.
If anyone applies for conversion, he said, the state level committee and the Government will scrutinize the proposal.
Prudent Media, a local TV channel, had recently exposed the issue following confusing statement made by chief town planner Morad Ahmed.
He had said the criteria of eco sensitive zone would not be applied to the rest of nine talukas unless they are notified. Till then, the old Regional Plan 2001 would prevail, which allowed paddy fields to be converted.
When asked whether the government would also alter ODPs based on eco sensitive zones as suggested by state level committee member and renowned architect Charles Correa, CM said: “we will see it later.”
Chief Minister also read out the circular issued on 15 May in this regard.
As per the circular, a committee will suggest or decide about the proposals for construction. This suggestion will go to the town and country planning board. Government however will take final decision on the proposals.
Kamat also declared that a special cell is being constituted, headed by the chief secretary, to implement the regional plan properly.
