MAPUSA
The Calangute panchayat has decided to conduct a site inspection of all illegal structures along roads within its jurisdiction, following a directive from the High Court.
The move aligns with the court’s order in Public Interest Litigation (PIL) No 3 of 2024, dated March 6, which calls for action against unauthorised constructions on roadsides, highways and major roads in panchayat areas, as well as illegal structures being used for commercial purposes.
The decision to act was taken during the panchayat’s fortnightly meeting, where a resolution was passed to target unauthorised constructions in compliance with the court’s directions.
Sources indicate that numerous illegal structures, including some on footpaths in the coastal village, are likely to face action in light of the High Court ruling.
Acting Sarpanch Anny Fernandes confirmed that the panchayat has issued a public notice to inform residents of the impending action.
“We have not yet identified specific structures, but once we commence the drive, we will do so and take the necessary action,” Fernandes stated.
The inspection drive is expected to begin from April 1.
The High Court has recently ordered stringent action against illegal constructions across the State, directing all local bodies, including panchayats and municipalities, to inspect roadways, highways and other major roads within their jurisdiction and submit reports on illegal structures within four weeks.
In response to the court’s ruling, Director of Panchayats Siddhi Halarnkar has instructed all village panchayats, Block Development Officers (BDOs) and panchayat secretaries to ensure strict compliance with the directive on illegal constructions.
The High Court has categorized illegal constructions under eight classifications for targeted action: Illegal construction on roadside/highway/major road in municipal areas, illegal construction on roadside/highway/major road in panchayat areas, illegal construction in panchayat areas being used for commercial purposes, illegal construction in municipal areas being used for commercial purposes, illegal construction in paddy fields, illegal construction on government property, illegal construction on comunidade property and illegal construction on tenanted lands.
With the panchayat preparing to launch its inspection drive, several unauthorised structures in Calangute are expected to be scrutinised and removed in accordance with the court’s directive.
