PANAJI
The Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) has ordered to seal a property in Merces due to alleged illegal filling of a low-lying paddy field and unauthorized construction of structures. GCZMA Member Secretary Sneha Gitte, in her order on Friday, directed the Deputy Collector at Mapusa to comply within 48 hours.
The order comes following hearing into a complaint filed by one Michael Dias in February 2020, alleging violations in Murda Village under the jurisdiction of Merces Village Panchayat. He alleged that the construction within the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) area occurred without proper permissions.
During the hearing, expert members of GCZMA and the Directorate of Survey and Land Records conducted site inspections following which show cause notices were issued to the violator/s for a personal hearing in January 2021.
In the 351st GCZMA meeting on July 31, 2023, the complainant remained present, but the respondent was absent.
The Authority decided that "to issue direction to the Deputy Collector & SDM Tiswadi to seal the property bearing survey number 91/3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 in Murda village, Merces, Tiswadi. The Authority decided to seal the premises with further orders and posted the matter on August 17, 2023 at 3pm for further hearing.”
In the order, fresh directions have been issued to the respondent to remain present before the authority on September 7 for a final hearing. The Deputy Collector in Mapusa is also asked to seal the property within 48 hours and submit a compliance report.
