MAPUSA
The Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) has launched an inquiry into an alleged case of illegal landfilling in a paddy field at Corjuem-Aldona, following a formal complaint filed by a former panchayat member.
A team of three officials, including an expert member from GCZMA, conducted a thorough site inspection in Corjuem on Friday and is expected to submit a detailed report in the coming days.
The inspection was prompted by a complaint from Thomas Tavares, a former panchayat member of Aldona, who raised concerns about large-scale landfilling taking place in Survey No 193/1 in Corjuem.
According to Tavares, the land in question is classified as a paddy field under the Regional Plan 2021 and is located adjacent to the Mapusa Tar River.
He alleged that the area has been completely filled with debris and mud, in direct violation of the Goa Land Regulation Act and the Goa Land Revenue Code.
“There has been massive landfilling happening in this area, which is officially recorded as a paddy field. This not only violates environmental laws but also affects the ecological balance of the region. The unauthorized dumping of debris and soil is a clear infringement of multiple regulations,” Tavares stated in his complaint, which was addressed to the District Collector, GCZMA and other relevant authorities.
The complaint further alleges that the landfilling has led to the destruction of mangroves, a vital ecological feature that serves as a protective barrier against coastal erosion and supports marine biodiversity.
“There has been a gross violation of Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) norms, and the illegal filling has resulted in the burial of mangroves, which is a serious environmental offence,” added Tavares.
Although the complaint does not name any specific individuals responsible for the illegal landfilling, sources suggest that a staff member from the local panchayat may be involved in the unauthorised activity.
Investigations are currently underway to determine the extent of the violations and identify those accountable for the alleged encroachment.
