Locals say stall demolition threatens livelihoods
MAPUSA
Villagers of Calangute have resolved to move the High Court seeking a review of its recent order directing the demolition of roadside structures, which they say threatens the livelihoods of several local families engaged in long-standing tourism-related businesses.
During the gram sabha held on Sunday, locals expressed strong opposition to the demolition notices issued by the panchayat to stalls and kiosks situated along the roadside.
They argued that many of these structures have existed for years, with valid trade permissions granted by the panchayat, and serve as the primary source of income for the families running them.
“The panchayat has issued demolition orders to roadside structures that have been conducting activities for several years. Calangute is a tourist destination, and many families rely on these businesses for their livelihoods,” a local resident stated.
The villagers also pointed out that the land beside the road has not been officially acquired and that owners are willing to remove portions of the structures that obstruct traffic.
They urged the panchayat not to proceed with blanket demolitions but to consider a more pragmatic approach.
“The panchayat should approach the High Court and submit relevant facts, requesting a review or reconsideration of the demolition directive, especially for structures that do not affect vehicular movement,” they said.
The gram sabha passed a resolution requesting the panchayat to take legal steps to protect existing structures that do not obstruct traffic and are essential to
the local economy.
In another significant resolution, the gram sabha unanimously urged the panchayat to stop issuing any permissions – temporary or permanent – within 0 to 200 metres of the High Tide Line (HTL) under the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) norms.
Local resident Premanand Diukar emphasised the ecological importance of preserving this zone, citing widespread violations of the CRZ Rules and the Environment Protection Act, 1986.
He warned that unregulated development in this stretch was destroying sand dunes, beach vegetation, and coastal biodiversity.
“These natural elements act as the first line of defence during natural calamities. With the carrying capacity of Calangute’s coastal area already exhausted, it is critical to protect the 0–200 metre stretch of HTL from any further construction,” Diukar said.
He further demanded that the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) be asked to halt all permissions within this sensitive zone to prevent further ecological degradation.
