MARGAO
After a video showing sand excavation at Colva beach went viral, the Colva Consumer and Civic Forum has knocked on the doors of the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA), demanding a thorough probe and appropriate action.
Social activist and Forum Secretary Judith Almeida alleged that illegal activities comprising of encroachment within the HTL, excavation of beach sand, filling of sand bags used to create a raised portion as flooring has been carried out by a party. She said the activity has been carried out despite the demolition order issued by the GCZMA in February 2023, which is presently sub judice before the National Green Tribunal.
In the complaint, the social activist said it is appalling that the party has undertaken illegal activities on September 10, 2025 of encroachment between the Low Tide Line and the High Tide Line.
She said sand had been excavated from the beach and filled into bags to create a raised floor area for an extended bamboo structure used for commercial activities on the beach, without permission from any statutory bodies.
“Such activities not only destabilise healing of the beaches but will cause erosion of adjoining areas. The Forum has received complaints from the fishermen that their activities are hindered due to the illegal activities of this owner,” she said.
She added: “The GCZMA had issued directions to demolish the structure by way of an order dated 14.02.2023 and an appeal filed by the Respondent is pending for final hearing before the NGT.”
The social activist has called for an urgent site inspection and necessary action in the matter.
