Advertisement
The Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) has directed the removal of unauthorised shacks and resort extensions on Agonda Beach in Canacona, a protected turtle nesting site. Inspections revealed that these constructions lacked mandatory licences and approvals despite some owners holding pollution and tourism permits. The authority clarified that payment of house tax does not confer legality and instructed most violators to dismantle the illegal portions themselves.
The Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority has issued demolition orders for several unauthorised structures, including shacks and resort extensions, on Agonda's turtle nesting beach in Canacona. The authority stated that the payment of house tax to local panchayats cannot be considered proof of legitimacy, as it is collected solely for revenue purposes and does not validate construction under coastal regulations. Advertisement
A complaint filed last year had alleged widespread illegal commercial construction within the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) of Agonda, which is classified as a turtle nesting site and a no-development zone. Subsequent inspections confirmed that numerous structures had been erected in violation of CRZ norms.
During hearings, the complainant pointed out that the constructions violated the findings of the government's beach carrying capacity report and included encroachments on government-owned land. The GCZMA had initially sealed the structures, after which the parties involved sought relief from the High Court. The court later directed the GCZMA to hear the parties and conclude the matter expeditiously.
Several violators informed the GCZMA that they would voluntarily remove the illegal portions. While some of the establishments held operational permissions from the State Pollution Control Board and the tourism department, the GCZMA noted that none had secured the mandatory construction licences, approvals from the town and country planning department, or conversion sanads required for legal development.
By compelling owners to remove unlawful extensions, the authority has underlined its intent to safeguard ecologically sensitive areas like Agonda Beach. The action serves as a reminder that development in CRZ zones must follow strict legal procedures to avoid damaging fragile coastal habitats.
5th Jun, 2025
25th May, 2023
11th May, 2023
27th Apr, 2023
Advertisement
Facebook
Whatsapp
