Locals allege hill has been cut and several trees felled to aid construction
UNDER THE SCANNER: A large structure rising on an elevated slope barely 100 metres from Ozrant beach has sparked alarm among local residents.
MAPUSA
A large structure coming up on an elevated slope barely 100 metres from Ozrant beach has triggered strong concern among local residents, who allege that the hill has been cut and several trees felled to facilitate the construction.
According to the villagers, the site – located in Survey No 213/6 – had previously received permission only for temporary eco-friendly structures.
Last year, the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) issued an NOC allowing a restaurant/shack, a hut and a reception area in accordance with CRZ norms.
In May this year, the Anjuna panchayat granted a provisional NOC for similar temporary structures, subject to routine conditions.
The permissions were issued in the name of Antonio Britto of Mazal Vaddo, Anjuna.
The GCZMA’s NOC lays down strict terms: no environmental degradation, no obstruction of traditional access and mandatory use of eco-friendly materials such as bamboo, wooden poles and thatched roofing. It allows only limited use of GI pipes or mild steel frames for structural support.
However, villagers say the current work on site appears far beyond the scope of what was approved.
Local resident Desmond Alvares, who has filed complaints with the GCZMA, Tourism Department and other authorities, alleges that the ongoing construction resembles a multi-storey concrete structure in a CRZ-III zone.
He claims the work involves “massive concrete foundations, steel columns, hill cutting and widespread clearing of vegetation.”
A joint site inspection was recently carried out by the Forest Department along with the complainant.
While the department’s final report on possible tree felling is awaited, the inspection is understood to have found heavy concrete foundations at the site.
Alvares said the situation reflects a broader pattern, “There has to be a proper vigilance inquiry. Across the Anjuna coastline, several large constructions have appeared under the guise of temporary structures. If such activities continue unchecked, the entire coastal ecosystem will be at risk.”
Another villager, requesting anonymity, said authorities must be more transparent and assertive, “These violations are happening in full view of the authorities. If complaints do not lead to action, people naturally begin to question the process.”
A senior GCZMA official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said, “Our NOC clearly restricts any permanent or concrete construction. If there is any deviation, action will be taken as per CRZ regulations after due verification.”
Efforts to reach the applicant, Antonio Britto, were unsuccessful. His response will be published once he is available for comment.
Meanwhile, the villagers say they will continue to raise the issue until the authorities clarify whether the construction conforms to the permissions granted and the environmental safeguards mandated under the CRZ framework.
