From garbage management and alleged irregularities in development projects to environmental restrictions and the protection of temples, gram sabhas in different parts of Goa have raised a range of issues concerning local communities.

The Sancoale Gram Sabha witnessed heated discussions over garbage collection and alleged irregularities linked to mega projects. Residents questioned the manner in which certain licences were granted and demanded that permissions issued without following due procedure be reviewed and revoked. They also called for the implementation of garbage collection charges and urged the panchayat to speed up the construction of the new Panchayat Ghar.

Another major demand was the recovery of pending rent running into several crores from large institutions and industries operating in the area, including BITS Pilani. Residents also opposed the proposed division of Sancoale Panchayat into two separate panchayats.

At the Velim Gram Sabha, the focus shifted to the concerns of the fishing community, environmental protection and basic civic issues. The Sabha passed a resolution seeking recognition of fishing community members residing in three wards under the fishermen category.

Members also raised concerns over stray dogs, stray cattle and garbage disposal, with suggestions to penalise those who dump waste illegally and ensure that the panchayat takes responsibility for comprehensive garbage collection.

The proposed notification of Sabu Lake as a wetland also faced opposition. Residents pointed out that several houses already exist within the proposed buffer area and expressed concern that the move could impose restrictions on construction and development.

The Sabha also opposed the application of Section 39A, arguing that the concerned area had already been identified as a No Development Zone under the Regional Plan 2021.

Meanwhile, in Bhoma, villagers continued to raise concerns over the proposed highway expansion and its possible impact on local temples. Residents have sought a clear government assurance that the religious structures will not be affected by the road project.

The demand from Bhoma comes amid the wider debate over the proposed highway alignment, with villagers insisting that development should not come at the cost of their temples, homes and community interests.