F.M. Reis, J.- The above Appeal challenges the judgment and award dated 18th December, 2003 passed by the learned Additional District Judge, South Goa, at Margao, in Land Acquisition Case No. 140/90/III. The parties shall be referred to in the manner in which they so appear in the impugned judgment.

2. By a notification dated 26th February, 1988 under the provisions of the Land Acquisition Act. 1894 (hereinafter referred to as 'the said Act') the land was acquired for the construction of minor m3 at Cuncolim in Salcete Taluka. Amongst the land which was acquired an area of 6225 square metres being a part of survey No. 432/1, at Cuncolim in Salcete Taluka was intended to be acquired. An amount a of Rs.88,477/- was awarded by the Land Acquisition Officer in the award under Section II of the said Act and in view of the dispute between the parties, a reference under Section 30 of the said Act was made to the learned District Judge for deciding the dispute. By the judgment and award dated 18th December, 2003, the Reference Court directed that the compensation awarded was to be paid to each of the parties No. 1 to 8 and the legal heirs of the deceased parties. Each of the parties