Britona institute plan faces EIA hurdle over NDZ, mangroves

PANAJI
Expert members of the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) have recommended that an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) be carried out before granting approval for the proposed redevelopment of the Maritime School at Britona into the Goa Institute of Maritime Excellence (GIME), citing its location within a No Development Zone (NDZ) and the presence of a mangrove buffer zone.
The GCZMA received an application from GIME on January 28, 2025, seeking CRZ clearance for the redevelopment of the institute at Penha de Franca, Bardez. As per the CZMP-2011, the 5,500-sq-metre government-owned survey plot falls fully within CRZ-III NDZ along the river/creek and is partly affected by the 50-metre mangrove buffer zone classified as CRZ-IA.
According to the site inspection observations, the proposed redevelopment includes a G+1 educational building with classrooms and ancillary facilities, a 10-metre-deep diving tank, a swimming pool measuring 25 metres by 12.12 metres and reconstruction of the existing jetty. The proposed building has a built-up area of 4,118.95 sq m. The jetty, currently measuring 211.92 sq m, is proposed to be reconstructed over 612.51 sq m.
The experts observed that the proposed two-floor structure and swimming pool are not permissible in an NDZ, while construction within the mangrove buffer zone is also prohibited. The inspection also noted several existing permanent structures for which the project proponent had not submitted documents showing requisite permissions.
The project proponent and a representative of the Captain of Ports were present during the proceedings and were directed to submit clarifications on the observations raised in the site inspection report. The proponent was also advised to ensure strict compliance with the permissible activities under the CZMP-2011.
The project dates back to 2024, when the Captain of Ports entered into a concessionaire agreement with Ganpat University to transform the dilapidated Maritime School, built in 1972, into a world-class maritime institute.
Under the PPP arrangement, Ganpat University is to invest Rs 15 crore and redevelop the facility within 18 months. The State will not incur expenditure but will hand over around 5,000 sq m of land at Britona to the university for 30 years.
The institute currently conducts new entrant and advanced refresher training courses for deck and engine-room personnel.