MARGAO
Permission granted for the construction of 10 villas and swimming pools in the fishing ward of Colva village panchayat has sparked a controversy in the coastal village.
The Colva Civic and Consumer Forum has objected to the Conversion Sanads issued for the property located within the fishing ward and CRZ III Zone of Colva. The Forum has submitted a representation before the South Goa Additional Collector, demanding that the conversion sanads issued to non-traditional persons be recalled, cancelled, or suspended.
Forum member Judith told the media that she would approach the National Green Tribunal if the Collector’s office failed to act.
“How can you issue a conversion sanad when the land falls entirely within a fishing ward and CRZ area?” she asked.
Citing CRZ 2011 Regulations, Judith said construction in such areas is limited to reconstruction or alteration of existing authorised buildings, with new dwelling units allowed only for traditional and customary uses, such as fishing villages and goathans. She pointed out that such buildings cannot exceed 9 metres in height or two floors (ground plus one).
She further stated that the CZMP 2011 Map clearly shows both plots fall within Colva’s fishing ward boundary.
According to her, the owners of the two projects include residents of New Delhi, persons living abroad, and even a private limited company. The sale deeds and power of attorney documents show that they only purchased their share of the land in June 2023.
“This clearly proves they are not eligible for traditional or customary rights within the fishing ward under CRZ rules,” she said.
“With 10 villas and 12 swimming pools being approved for people who are not traditional residents, the very integrity of the fishing ward will be damaged, and its protection under CRZ rules for the fishing community will be weakened,” Judith added.
