The serene coastal village of Mandrem, known for its pristine beaches and tranquil ambience, is facing a significant upheaval over the construction of luxury villas.
The local community has expressed outrage following the recent decision by the Mandrem panchayat to allow the construction of 90 opulent villas, a move viewed by many as detrimental to the village’s identity and sustainability.
On April 17, during a panchayat meeting, allegations surfaced regarding a resolution that granted permissions for these villa constructions.
Sarpanch Rajesh Mandrekar attempted to clarify the situation, asserting that only 18 villas had received approvals during his tenure, while the remaining 72 permissions were granted to 38 other villa projects months prior. This partial admission still begs the pressing question: why permit any villas in Mandrem at all?
Environmental and infrastructural concerns top the list of local grievances.
Mandrem’s current infrastructure is stretched thin, and it is struggling to provide adequate water and electricity to its residents. Locals have claimed that these resources are already in short supply, further exacerbating their discomfort.
The prospect of additional villas only raises alarm bells about the sustainability of essential services as the village grapples with the repercussions of haphazard development.
The residents’ apprehensions were vocalized when a group, led by advocate Prasad Shahapurkar, met with Sarpanch Mandrekar to present their memorandum.
One of the members of this delegation pointedly asked, “Even if there are only 18 villas approved, why add to our challenges?”
This question resonates deeply within the community, indicating a strong desire for transparency and accountability in the decision-making process.
The locals emphasize that the Gram Sabha, a platform intended for community consultation and involvement, should have been utilized to discuss such mega projects impacting their lives.
Moreover, the nature of these villa projects raises another critical issue: whom exactly do they serve?
The reality is that these luxury villas are priced beyond the reach of the average Goan family.
This brings into question the socio-economic landscape of the region, which seems to cater more to non-Goans and affluent outsiders rather than the local populace. The sentiment is that the development is oriented toward profit rather than community welfare, potentially alienating local residents who have lived in harmony with the land for generations.
In addition to social and infrastructural implications, there is a glaring environmental threat posed by such developments.
Mandrem’s picturesque landscape, characterized by its natural beauty, is at risk of significant degradation from construction activities.
The concern that construction may lead to irreversible ecological damage is paramount. The area’s flora and fauna, as well as its overall biodiversity, could suffer irrevocably, undermining both nature and tourism—the lifeblood of Mandrem’s local economy.
As discussions around development continue, it is essential for the Mandrem panchayat to prioritize the voices of the local community and consider the long-term implications of approving luxury villas in a region already facing developmental strains.
The residents are not against progress, but they are advocating for growth that respects and incorporates their needs, environment, and the unique character of Mandrem. It is time for local governance to truly listen and act for the community’s well-being, for God’s sake.
