Unauthorised structures also under council scanner
Mapusa civic officials inspect illegal landfilling and construction sites in Camarkhazan fields.
THE GOAN NETWORK
MAPUSA
Following complaints of illegal landfilling and unauthorised construction in the fields of Camarkhazan, the Mapusa Municipal Council (MMC) has taken swift action by issuing notices to alleged offenders and initiating an inspection of the sites.
A team of municipal officials, including the junior engineer and municipal inspector, recently conducted an on-site inspection, with findings set to be presented to the Chief Officer soon.
The issue was brought to the MMC’s attention by the Tenants Association of Camarcasanacho Bundh, who reported that certain individuals were allegedly filling the khazan fields — protected low-lying wetlands under the No Development Zone (NDZ) — to build unauthorised structures and operate businesses illegally.
Following the complaint, the MMC issued notices requiring the involved parties to provide documentation to prove the legality of their constructions.
A local resident, John Lobo expressed frustration over the alleged land misuse. “Some people have illegally filled the fields, built houses and are conducting business activities. These are khazan fields, which are protected under NDZ regulations. We urge the civic authorities to act against these offenders and restore our fields,” Lobo said.
Lobo highlighted that the High Court has already directed authorities to take stringent action on unauthorised structures, including demolition.
He also pointed to a recent announcement from the Chief Minister stating that unauthorised structures would no longer receive electricity or water connections, adding, “We believe that any illegal structures with existing utility connections should also face scrutiny and appropriate action.”
Another resident, Benedict Araujo, described additional challenges created by these encroachments.
According to Araujo, individuals have not only filled sections of the fields but have also built sheds for business use along the roadside.
He further alleged that some of the encroachments had even impacted his personal field.
“We’ve lodged complaints with several departments, including the Public Works Department (PWD) and the Water Resources Department (WRD), but no concrete action has been taken. These encroachments have blocked access to our fields, making cultivation impossible,” Araujo said, urging the civic body to address the matter.
