PANAJI
Residents of four residential complexes and a parent-teacher association (PTA) member of a private school have moved the High Court of Bombay at Goa against alleged unauthorised work to set up a casting yard for the Bhoma Highway project in a residential area. The petition has cited dust and noise pollution and construction activity continuing late into the night.
The nine petitioners have alleged that industrial activity is being carried out on land earmarked as a settlement area under the Regional Plan, without the necessary permissions and clearances.
During the hearing on Monday, the petitioners represented by Advocate Melisa Simoes further alleged that work at the site has continued since September 20, with excavation and earth-breaking activities beginning as early as 8 am and continuing beyond 10 pm. The movement of trucks and the resulting dust and noise have caused considerable disturbance to residents.
"The trees had been felled on the property without permission from the Forest Department," she said.
The Old Goa village panchayat issued a stop-work notice on October 5, directing that the work be stopped. However, according to the petitioners, work resumed shortly after being halted and continued despite the notice. They also alleged that the work stops when authorities visit the site for inspection only to resume after the officials leave.
The petitioners have sought immediate relief from the High Court, citing the impact of the activity on residents and the school community. A Shiv temple is also located in the vicinity, according to the petitioners.
The matter has been kept for further consideration on Wednesday after the respondents file their replies.
