Residents oppose Rajiv Gandhi IT Habitat in Dona Paula

Panaji, Dec 15 (UNI) Citizens of Dona Paula today reiterated their demand for scrapping the proposed Rajiv Gandhi IT Park, claiming it was nothing but a ''real estate scam'' resulting in an unplanned creation of a township in the plateau.

They renewed their demand for launching a CBI or Judicial probe into the process and criteria employed in allotment of plots for the beneficiaries. They also debunked claims of spending Rs 50 crore for providing basic infrastructure in the area.

''Even if the government removed the originally objected shopping mall and residential colonies in the Park, as hinted at by chief minister Digambar Kamat, we oppose the project which has not yet come out with the environment and social impact assessment plans and the feasibility studies,'' the protesters told mediapersons here.

They had strongly objected to allotting 80 per cent of the plots to the real estate developers. They feared loss of existing crematorium for which there was no provision shown for relocation.

''We have lost faith in the ability and bonafides of the government to protect the interests of the people and environment and have decided to intensify the agitation against the project,'' they said.

The citizens demanded establishment of an urban natural preserve in its place, that will cater to these multiple requirements and add to the environmental wealth of Goa.

It might be recalled that the state government had launched a magisterial inquiry into vandalism last December 6, resulting in stalling of further works related to the project.

The citizens of colonies also led a peace rally to the project site where former minister and Taleigao legislator Atanasio (Babush) Monserrate addressed them with a vow to shed his blood if necessary to stop the project in the interest of the locals.

The chief minister Digambar Kamat, however, made it clear that IT projects suited Goa and Goans and that he would clarify all apprehensions related to the project at the earliest.

UNI