Goa Government Advances Urban Property Card Initiative, Completes Quarter of Survey Work
The Goa state government has successfully completed around 25% of its ambitious project to update land records and distribute Urban Property Cards (UrPro) to landowners, despite encountering initial resistance from certain sections of the public. This significant progress marks a crucial step in modernizing property documentation across urban areas.
Overcoming Public Apprehension and Clarifying Objectives
Initially, there was considerable apprehension among residents in specific regions. Many feared that the survey was a precursor to merging village areas into municipal jurisdictions, potentially altering local governance structures. Additionally, rumors circulated that the government might confiscate properties belonging to owners residing abroad or those without legal heirs, creating widespread concern.
However, state officials have consistently emphasized that the primary goal is to accurately document land rights and ownership, not to seize properties. The survey is being conducted under the recently notified Goa (National Geospatial Knowledge Based) Land Survey of Urban Habitations Rules, 2025, which provides a legal framework for the initiative.
Official Procedures and Public Participation
According to Vrushika Kauthankar, Under-Secretary (Revenue-I), the process involves issuing general notices to inhabitants of villages, towns, or cities where surveys are directed under Section 56. These notices call upon house owners, mortgagees, residents, and even individuals living outside India to provide information to appointed survey officers.
"The objective is to ensure that all lands are measured correctly and rights are recorded accurately," Kauthankar stated. "We urge all stakeholders to participate actively to avoid discrepancies in the final records."
The procedure includes:
- Issuing public notices to inform residents about the survey.
- Collecting information from property owners and interested parties.
- Conducting inquiries by officers to determine rights, titles, and interests.
- Considering suggestions and objections from the public.
Timeline and Future Steps
A senior government official revealed that the state has set a target to complete the entire survey by the end of February. However, if unforeseen challenges arise, the government is prepared to seek additional time to ensure thoroughness and accuracy.
Following the inquiry phase, draft Urban Property Cards will be prepared based on the decisions of inquiry officers or, in cases of appeals or civil suits, according to final court orders. This meticulous approach aims to create a transparent and legally sound property record system.
The completion of 25% of the work demonstrates the government's commitment to this landmark project, which promises to streamline property transactions, reduce disputes, and enhance urban planning in Goa.
