Deputy Collector asked to inspect site and file affidavit on legality before Jan 14
PANAJI
The High Court of Bombay at Goa has directed the Deputy Collector of Canacona to inspect structures standing on Agonda beach and file an affidavit on their legality. The matter will be heard on January 14.
The directions were issued by Division Bench of Justice Suman Shyam and Justice Amit Jamsandekar while hearing a writ petition alleging the existence of unauthorised commercial structures in the eco-sensitive zone.
The petitioner Alchemist Asset Reconstruction Company Ltd alleged that several commercial structures are operating at the turtle nesting site in Agonda without mandatory permissions from regulatory authorities. The petition sought immediate removal of the alleged illegal structures.
Additional Government Advocate Prashil Arolkar informed the court that GCZMA issued a show-cause notice on December 15, 2025, to the concerned, however, it is unable to take further action as its term has expired.
Counsel for respondent denied the allegations and maintained that the structures were erected with proper permissions. He also sought time to place relevant documents on record by filing a reply.
The petitioner’s counsel pressed for urgent interim relief, contending that no follow-up action had been taken by statutory authorities, including the Deputy Collector.
After hearing the parties, the court directed GCZMA and Deputy Collector to file separate affidavits clarifying their stand. "We also direct Respondent No. 3 i.e. the Deputy Collector, to carry out an inspection of the site and arrive at his own satisfaction as regards the legitimacy of the structures standing thereon. His findings be placed on record in the form of affidavit, to be filed on or before January 13 by serving advance copy upon the Petitioner's counsel. Likewise, Respondent No. 4 to also file reply on or before January 13 by serving advance copy upon the Petitioner's counsel," reads the order.
The court matter has been listed for further hearing on January 14 with the Bench stating that the need for further directions would be considered on the next date.
