MAPUSA
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has announced plans for potential amendments to various State laws, including those concerning Town and Country Planning (TCP), tourism, panchayats, and Coastal Zone Management Plans (CZMP), aimed at protecting houses and businesses in coastal areas, particularly those established prior to 1991.
Sawant made these remarks during a Sankalp Patra Abhiyan meeting held at Bandir Waddo, Anjuna, emphasising the government's commitment to preserving the interests of residents engaged in traditional occupations along the coast.
He emphasised the urgency of finding a solution to safeguard coastal properties, highlighting recent discussions with Union Minister for Environment Bhupendra Yadav regarding the necessity for regulatory relaxations.
"The government will work tirelessly to ensure the protection of people engaged in traditional occupations along the coastal belt," Sawant affirmed.
The announcement follows mounting concerns over illegal constructions in North Goa's coastal belt, with the High Court recently issuing orders to seal approximately 175 structures, including some belonging to local politicians, along the Anjuna-Vagator coastline.
In response to these developments, the CM underscored the need for legislative adjustments to address the challenges faced by coastal residents.
The proposed amendments aim to provide legal recourse for properties established prior to 1991, offering a lifeline to homeowners and businesses grappling with legal uncertainties and enforcement actions.
