The Supreme Court has directed the High Court of Bombay at Goa to resolve the dispute over the Outline Development Plans (ODPs) for five coastal villages in Goa-Calangute, Candolim, Parre, Arpore, and Nagoa. Introduced on December 15, 2022, the ODPs face opposition from environmental activists and residents, leading to a High Court stay on development activities. The Goa Foundation argues that the ODPs will cause environmental harm, while allegations have been made against Calangute MLA Michael Lobo for influencing the plans for personal gain. The Supreme Court's decision to send the case back to the High Court will determine the future of these development plans and their impact on Goa's coastal environment.
The ongoing dispute over the Outline Development Plans (ODPs) for five coastal villages in Goa has taken another turn with the Supreme Court directing the High Court of Bombay at Goa to resolve the matter. The ODPs for Calangute, Candolim, Parre, Arpore, and Nagoa, introduced on December 15, 2022, have faced significant opposition from environmental activists and local residents.
The Goa Foundation, a non-profit organisation, challenged the legality of the ODPs, arguing that they would lead to rampant construction and environmental degradation. The High Court had initially issued a stay order on development activities based on these plans, citing concerns over potential irregularities.
The state government subsequently filed a special leave petition (SLP) with the Supreme Court, seeking to overturn the High Court's order. However, the Supreme Court has now dismissed the state's appeal, sending the case back to the High Court for further proceedings.
The High Court had previously expressed concerns about the involvement of Calangute MLA Michael Lobo in the ODP process, alleging that he stood to benefit personally from the proposed changes. Lobo, who was the former chairman of the North Goa Planning and Development Authority (NGPDA), has been accused of using his position to influence the ODPs in favour of his interests.
The Goa Foundation has maintained that the ODPs violate environmental regulations and would lead to irreversible damage to the coastal ecosystem. The organisation has called for the complete scrapping of the ODPs and the enforcement of the Regional Plan 2021, which outlines a more sustainable development framework for the region.
The outcome of this case will have significant implications for the future of Goa's coastal areas. If the High Court upholds the stay order on the ODPs, it could lead to a reassessment of development plans for these villages and potentially prevent large-scale construction projects. However, if the ODPs are allowed to proceed, it could result in rapid urbanisation and environmental degradation.
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