MAPUSA
The noose is tightening around the owners of the controversial Goya Club at Vagator-Anjuna, with the Deputy Collector of Bardez ordering the restoration of an agricultural land parcel that was illegally converted for commercial use.
Deputy Collector Varsha Para has directed the club management to restore Survey No 410/1 in Anjuna village to its original agricultural condition within 30 days, after an inquiry revealed that the land had been unlawfully used for non-agricultural purposes.
A penalty of Rs 15 lakh has also been imposed for violating land-use regulations.
According to the order, failure to comply within the stipulated period will result in the Mamlatdar undertaking the restoration work, with all expenses to be recovered from the proponents of the club.
Goya Club was among the first establishments sealed by authorities following the devastating fire at the Birch by Romeo Lane nightclub in December, which claimed 25 lives and triggered a statewide crackdown on nightclubs and entertainment venues.
The club was shut down in the second week of December and continues to remain sealed.
Officials found that Goya Club was operating illegally on agricultural land without the requisite permissions, lacked mandatory fire safety clearances, and suffered from serious structural violations.
Sources in the revenue department said the action sends a strong message that illegal land conversions and unauthorised commercial operations will not be tolerated, particularly in the wake of heightened scrutiny following the nightclub fire tragedy.
The case is part of a broader enforcement drive by the district administration to ensure compliance with zoning laws, safety norms, and environmental regulations in North Goa’s tourism belt.
