PANAJI
Residents of Chimbel have accused the government of defying court orders by resuming work on the controversial Unity Mall project, promoted by the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC).
At a press conference held at the project site, Govind Shirodkar, chairman of the Chimbel Biodiversity Management Committee, alleged that construction had restarted despite the District and Sessions Court suspending the mall’s construction license until January 8.
“The tourism minister and the chief minister, who made the laws, are breaking them today,” Shirodkar charged.
The project, located in a watershed area, has not received mandatory clearance from the Goa Biodiversity Board, according to Shirodkar. He claimed the site contains several natural springs feeding nearby lakes, making it ecologically sensitive.
“If scientists study the area, they will find many springs,” he said.
The controversy began when GTDC applied for a construction license from the Chimbel panchayat which was rejected, citing errors in documents and strong local opposition.
GTDC then approached the Block Development Officer (BDO), who allegedly gave verbal assurances to permit the project. Locals challenged this decision in court on December 17 and secured a stay.
Yet, within hours of the hearing, the panchayat issued the construction license, which the court later suspended.
Despite the suspension, Shirodkar said work has continued for the past four days, with officials insisting it is a government project and therefore exempt.
Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte has maintained that the site does not fall within a watershed area and that all necessary permits are in place.
Residents, however, argue the project epitomizes disregard for environmental safeguards and judicial authority.
“We were denied the opportunity to present our objections before permissions were rushed through,” Shirodkar said.
The Unity Mall, billed as a grand tourism hub, has faced opposition since its inception, with critics warning it could damage fragile ecosystems around Chimbel. The dispute now raises larger questions about governance, transparency, and respect for court orders.
With the license suspended until January 8, locals say they will continue to monitor the site and press for accountability.
