The villagers of Anjuna staged a peaceful protest at Starco Junction, on Monday, drawing attention to the State's failure to resolve the long pending Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) issue.
This protest followed a High Court order directing the closure and demolition of 175 'illegally operating' commercial establishments.
Apprehensive the action will lead them to financial loss, the villagers urged the Goa government to resolve the issue without further delay.
The locals also invited concerned citizens and stakeholders to join them in their peaceful protest.
“There are some establishments which existed even before the Coastal Regulation Zone law came into force. These are traditional structures but even they are declared as illegal,” lamented a local.
Some villagers alleged that the government was delaying finalization of the Coastal Zone Management Plan, due to which their businesses are suffering.
Residents also argued that the order is biased without hearing their side.
Local MLA Delilah Lobo along with Calangute MLA Michael Lobo arrived at the protest site to show her support.
"The State Government needs to come up with a notification which says what are the documents legally accepted by the GCZMA or Panchayat to prove that structures are within the high tide line. We will meet the CM today on this issue," said Lobo.
By end of the day, Anjuna locals called off their one-day bandh and appealed the residents to restart their business. The residents have also decided to meet Chief Minister Sawant to discuss this of CRZ issue.
