Locals worried about demolition risks on homes
MAPUSA
With the High Court intensifying its crackdown on illegal constructions, villagers in Calangute have expressed growing concern over irregular structures within the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) area.
The anxiety stems from the recent demolition of illegal structures in Arambol following a High Court directive, sparking fears of similar action in Calangute.
During the gram sabha meeting held on Sunday, resident Manuel Cardozo questioned whether the panchayat had any plans to protect fishermen’s homes along the coast that fall under CRZ regulations.
In response, Calangute Sarpanch Joseph Sequeira admitted that several structures were indeed vulnerable under existing laws and could face demolition.
Sequeira assured villagers that the panchayat would soon organize an awareness meeting for coastal residents, in consultation with CRZ experts, following the next High Court hearing scheduled for May 13.
Cardozo also raised concerns about a reported government proposal to transition Calangute from a village panchayat to an urban status.
He noted that while urban classification could provide certain relaxations for CRZ regulations – potentially saving some existing structures – it could also pave the way for large-scale destruction of hills and fields.
Meanwhile, residents sought clarification on the panchayat’s actions following the High Court’s orders on illegal structures along the roadside.
The Sarpanch informed that 54 structures encroaching on areas designated for road widening had been identified and the process for further action was underway, pending the court’s upcoming directions.
Pollution of the Baga creek also emerged as a major concern during the meeting.
Local resident Premanand Diukar highlighted the daily operation of over 40 sewage tankers at the Calangute Sewage Treatment Plant, alleging that untreated or poorly treated sewage was being discharged into the Baga river.
Diukar stated that the village’s biodiversity committee had compiled and submitted a report on the issue to the panchayat.
Despite approaching the Goa State Pollution Control Board (GSPCB) for testing and action, no substantial steps had been taken, he lamented.
The sarpanch acknowledged the panchayat had formally communicated concerns to the pollution board but had yet to receive any response.
