Daijiworld Media Network - Margao

Margao, Jul 28: Concerns over unchecked housing developments and a rising influx of migrants dominated the Nuvem village panchayat gram sabha held on Sunday. With local infrastructure stretched to its limits, residents warned that the village’s carrying capacity has reached saturation.

The meeting, chaired by Sarpanch Freda D’Sa, saw residents raise multiple issues ranging from land use changes to road safety and civic infrastructure.

Red Flag on Land Conversion & Housing Pressure

Pausilipo Dourado expressed alarm over alleged conversions of non-developable slope land to settlement zones under Section 17(2) of the Town and Country Planning Act. He warned that such reclassifications would pave the way for mega housing projects that would crowd out locals.

“Our village is at full capacity. If this continues, future generations of Nuvem residents won’t have space to build homes,” Dourado cautioned.

He tabled a resolution urging the panchayat to deny all permissions for housing on such converted land, which was accepted by the members.

Support for Farmers & Local Markets

Amancio Fernandes proposed a resolution to increase the support price for local farm produce, especially Alsando (Goan beans). The suggestion received widespread support, with members proposing that village-grown produce be sold at the Nuvem Bhagyagdar market, providing a local platform for farmers.
Infrastructure Accountability

Jose Roque Andrade raised concerns about the lack of clarity in PWD pipeline layouts, complicating maintenance and repairs. After discussion, the gram sabha passed a resolution directing the panchayat to obtain and archive official drawings and maps of all utility lines — including water, electricity, and telephone — from the relevant departments for future reference.

Road Safety & Illegal Structures

Carmelito Andrade and Zarina D’Cunha highlighted the hazardous placement of vendors selling fruits and plants along bypass and service roads, posing risks to traffic safety. D’Cunha reminded the panchayat that August 8 is the deadline to report illegal structures along highways under ongoing regulatory action.

Responding to the concern, Sarpanch Freda D’Sa confirmed that notices had already been served to the concerned parties.

As the village grapples with mounting development pressure and civic strain, residents made it clear they expect proactive governance from the panchayat to preserve Nuvem’s identity, safety, and ecological balance.