After protest, Rane says will cancel zone change of Arambol private forest

Panaji: Town and country planning (TCP) minister Vishwajit Rane on Wednesday said his department cancelled the provisional permission granted for a change of zone in Arambol. His statement came after Varchawada residents in Arambol, at the foot of the Bhatwadi hills, launched a protest on Sunday against the change of zone to settlement of over 3.05 lakh sqm of land covering the hills. The entire land area comprises green cover. Rane posted on his verified X handle that the notification reversing the provisional change of zone will be issued shortly.“The department of town and country planning cancelled the provisional permission granted for change of zone at Arambol. After the people of Arambol met me and shared their concerns, the matter was carefully reviewed and the decision was taken in their interest. I assured the people of Arambol and Pernem that their sentiments will always be respected,” said Rane on X.The residents said that any development on the hills will mean the source of water will dry up for the villages located in the valley. The residents are entirely dependent on horticulture for their livelihood. They said half of the village of Arambol is covered by the length of the Bhatwadi hills, and replacing its green cover with construction will mean altering the entire village’s ecosystem.“With the blessings of Shree Devi Bhagwati, I draw strength to continue serving the people and to work with commitment, responsibility and sensitivity towards public concerns. I will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to ensure a balanced approach towards health, holistic development, environmental protection and the overall well-being of the people,” the minister said.“The official notification confirming the cancellation will be issued shortly,” said Rane.The residents said their protest will continue until the change of zone of Bhatwadi hills is reversed by govt.Earlier, MLA Jit Arolkar supported the residents’ demand, and chief minister Pramod Sawant assured that he will reverse the change of zone after the villagers met him with their representation.