The High Court of Bombay at Goa has taken a decisive stance against illegal construction in ecologically sensitive No Development Zones (NDZ). In a case involving a four-storeyed hotel built near the seashore without any necessary permissions, the court has ordered the structure's immediate sealing. The judgment emphasises the need for strict enforcement of environmental regulations and highlights the alarming prevalence of such illegal constructions near shorelines. This resolute action serves as a warning to potential violators and underscores the importance of protecting the environment and upholding regulatory compliance.
The Bombay High Court in Goa has taken a resolute stand against unlawful construction in No Development Zones (NDZ). In response to the case of an unauthorised four-story hotel in Arambol, constructed less than 50 meters from the seashore, the court issued a compelling directive. The court ordered the immediate cessation of commercial activities, the sealing of the premises, and the disconnection of electricity and water connections within 48 hours. This case spotlights the failure of local authorities to enforce regulations, emphasising the paramount importance of protecting the environment and upholding the rule of law.
In a landmark decision, the High Court of Bombay at Goa has issued a resounding verdict on the rampant issue of illegal construction in environmentally sensitive areas, particularly in No Development Zones (NDZ). The court's judgment is a resolute response to the construction of a four-storeyed hotel in Girkarwada, Arambol, within 50 meters of the seashore, violating the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notification and lacking the necessary permissions and occupancy certificate.
Expressing profound shock and disbelief at the audacity of this construction, the High Court, in a writ petition filed by concerned citizens, ordered the sealing of the unauthorised hotel. The court took an uncompromising stance, instructing the Deputy Collector of Pernem and the Pernem Police Inspector to halt all commercial activities on the premises, disconnect electricity and water connections within 48 hours, and ensure that the site is sealed.
This is a case that demands serious action, as emphasised by the court. The individuals responsible for this construction, in clear defiance of established regulations and norms, must be held accountable for their actions. It is a matter of grave concern that the Arambol Village Panchayat, despite having issued an order to demolish the illegal structure, failed to take any significant steps in that direction.
The court's judgment underscores the need for stringent enforcement of environmental and zoning regulations. It is alarming to see construction of this scale occurring in an eco-sensitive NDZ without the requisite approvals from authorities, such as the panchayat, the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA), the Town and Country Planning department, the Health department, and the Fire Safety authorities.
The court's decision serves as a stern warning to those who engage in illegal construction activities near shorelines, with or without the connivance of local authorities. It is an all-too-common practice that needs to be curbed, as it has severe consequences for the environment and orderly urban planning.
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