Birch underwent a simplified GSPCB consent mechanism that relies heavily on document verification rather than mandatory site inspections.
PANAJI
Amid growing scrutiny over regulatory gaps following the Arpora nightclub fire, it has emerged that the Goa State Pollution Control Board (PCB) granted Consent to Operate (CTO) under Air and Water Act to Birch nightclub primarily on the basis of the establishment’s self-declaration and a trade licence issued by the Arpora-Nagoa panchayat.
According to GSPCB officials, Birch—categorised under the “green” industry bracket—was processed under the simplified consent mechanism that relies heavily on document verification rather than mandatory site inspections. Under this framework, industries with low presumed pollution potential are allowed to submit self-certification affirming compliance with environmental norms and siting criteria.
“Once we issue consent, we mention that the consent to operate is not the final permission and the establishment should obtain other requisite NOCs,” officials said.
Consent issued without initial site visit
Sources confirmed that in Birch’s case, the PCB did not conduct an immediate physical inspection before issuing CTO. Instead, officials examined the documents submitted by the operators, including:
self-declaration stating adherence to environmental standards and waste-management norms.
Panchayat-issued trade licence, validating that the establishment was permitted to operate at the location. Property Plan, highlighting the total area and the establishment structure and other basic registration and identity-related documents.
Document-driven approach
Officials defended the process, stating that green-category units are governed by a faster and simplified system meant to avoid delays. “For such units, we rely on self-certification and the legality conferred by the trade licence. Site inspections are not mandatory at the stage of granting CTO,” a senior PCB official said.
However, the incident has now brought attention to how document-driven approvals may overlook ground-level issues, especially when local bodies rely on their own assessments or have limited technical capacity.
Random audits an option
The GSPCB maintains that while the initial approval was based on self-declared compliance, the board retains the power to conduct surprise inspections if discrepancies or complaints surface. Officials stated that any violations detected during such audits can result in immediate suspension or cancellation of consent. However, in this case, the authorities did not receive any complaints about the pollution.
As the investigation continues in the case, the role of the Pollution Control Board, panchayat licencing, and self-certification mechanisms has already come under sharper examination, with officials facing suspension and police probe.
