Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, Jan 7: A large turnout marked the Justice Ferdino Rebello meet held at IMB, where speakers, activists and concerned citizens strongly demanded immediate government intervention to roll back recent amendments to Goa’s land and planning laws.

Addressing the gathering, speakers called upon the state government to bring in an ordinance or fresh legislation to repeal amendments to the Town and Country Planning (TCP) Act, particularly Sections 17(2) and 39A. The changes, they said, permit zoning alterations, land-use modifications and allow higher Floor Area Ratio (FAR) even on narrow roads, raising serious concerns over unregulated development.

The speakers warned that these provisions could permanently alter Goa’s landscape and strain its fragile infrastructure. They stressed that unchecked zoning changes would benefit real estate interests at the cost of local communities and the environment.

The meeting also urged the government to amend the Land Revenue Code to restrict the sale of land to non-agriculturists and non-residents. Participants said such safeguards were vital to protect Goa’s land resources, cultural heritage and the rights of local residents.

Activists pointed out that without corrective measures, Goans risk losing control over their land to speculative interests, leading to irreversible social and ecological consequences.

The event witnessed active participation from citizens, environmentalists and local leaders, reflecting growing public concern over the current direction of Goa’s land and planning policies. Speakers unanimously called for transparency, public consultation and people-centric development policies to ensure sustainable growth in the state.