MAPUSA
As per directives from the High Court, panchayats across the State are racing against time to identify and report illegal structures within their jurisdictions. However, the scale and complexity of the task, particularly in the densely built-up coastal belt, are proving to be overwhelming.
Several panchayats have already indicated that meeting the mandated four-week deadline may be unfeasible, and some are preparing to request an extension.
The Calangute panchayat has so far identified and demarcated 50 illegal structures, primarily commercial in nature, located along roadside areas. According to panchayat secretary Arjun Velip, the process includes detailed measurements to assess the extent of encroachment.
While residents have generally cooperated with inspections, Velip acknowledged a major challenge: obtaining accurate information from tenants operating commercial units. “Many properties are rented, and those managing the businesses either lack ownership records or are unwilling to provide details,” Velip said, highlighting the limitations of the current data-gathering efforts.
In Candolim, the panchayat is set to begin its identification process from Wednesday, with secretary Rajendra Gawas stating that roadside structures will be the initial focus.
“The task is vast, and identifying all illegal structures within four weeks seems nearly impossible,” said a panchayat official on condition of anonymity, confirming that a plea for an extension will likely be submitted to the court. Other panchayats in Bardez have made varying degrees of progress.
Tivim has identified 60 illegal structures along the highway, while Bastora has marked 53 within its jurisdiction.
Aldona has identified 49, Moira has found 11, and Nachinola has listed 23 such constructions.
In Siolim-Marna, Sarpanch Sandesh Hadfadkar confirmed that 50 illegal roadside commercial structures have been identified so far.
“Inspections are still underway, and the number may increase,” he noted. Crucially, he clarified that no legal notices have yet been issued, as the panchayat is still in the identification phase. Local cooperation has reportedly been high, thanks to a special gram sabha that informed residents about the court’s directive.
Meanwhile, in Anjuna, the panchayat plans to begin the identification process following a special gram sabha scheduled for Wednesday.
Sarpanch Laxmidas Chimulkar emphasised the importance of raising public awareness before proceeding with inspections.
“Community participation is essential for smooth execution of this task,” he said.
Although several panchayats have made notable headway in identifying illegal structures, the overarching consensus is that the task is too expansive to be completed within the High Court’s stipulated four-week period.
The sheer number of encroachments, combined with difficulties in information collection and the need for public engagement, means that a comprehensive and accurate report will likely require more time.
