Team Goemkarponn
VELSAO: Former Velsao Panch member and social worker Roquezinho D’Souza has objected to the proposal to declare Pale ward an urban area, alleging that the move lacks transparency and could pave the way for unplanned development while altering the village’s traditional character.
Addressing a press conference on Thursday, D’Souza said he had submitted a formal objection to the Revenue Department and written to the Directorate of Panchayats, questioning why only Pale, Ward No. 4 of the seven-ward Velsao Panchayat, had been selected for urban classification.
He said the proposal follows a memorandum-cum-notification dated May 26, 2026, and claimed that a similar attempt made in 2020 was later withdrawn. D’Souza demanded that the government explain why the proposal had resurfaced and on whose request it had been initiated.
He further pointed out that the notification directs the Panchayat Secretary to invite suggestions and objections from residents within 25 days. Stating that several residents had approached him with concerns, D’Souza said he decided to raise the issue in the larger interest of the community.
Warning against the long-term impact of urbanisation, he said Pale is a small ward with limited infrastructure and carrying capacity. According to him, bringing the ward under an urban area classification could lead to changes in development regulations, encourage commercialisation and adversely affect the village’s heritage and environment.
D’Souza urged the government to consider the objections raised by residents and withdraw the proposal.
