MAPUSA
The Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) has mandated the demolition of a resort in Calangute, constructed within the 200-metre no-development zone of the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) of the coastal village.
The owner, Lloyd St Jude Joachim Fernandes, has been instructed to remove all illegal constructions on the property, including cottages, a swimming pool, a reception block with a security cabin, cement flooring, a compound wall, landscaping, and a restaurant/shack.
Additionally, the coastal body has directed the calculation of environmental costs for the CRZ violations committed by the promoters and the restoration of the land to its original state within 30 days, as per the order issued on April 12.
Complaints regarding the development were lodged by the Goa Foundation and the Calangute Constituency Forum.
The GCZMA's decision came after the High Court disposed of a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by the Goa Foundation.
It is worth noting that the Calangute Panchayat had previously issued orders against illegal constructions by Amara by the Sea (Calangute) and Lloyd St Jude Joachim Fernandes within the 200-meter no-development zone of the CRZ of Calangute village.
Earlier inspections by the GCZMA revealed that eight concrete structures with concrete foundations, each containing around 3 to 4 rooms, along with a swimming pool, Sewage Treatment Plant (STP), and other facilities, were erected at the site. However, GCZMA's No Objection Certificate (NOC) was only for temporary wooden cottages.
Furthermore, the Goa State Pollution Control Board has rejected Amara by the Sea's application for consent under the Air and Water Acts.
