PANAJI
The High Court of Bombay at Goa has permitted an amendment to a petition concerning the ecologically sensitive nesting habitat of Olive Ridley turtles at Mhairi beach, also known as Dream Beach, in Vagator.
The petitioner, Chameleon Wildlife Organisation, sought leave to include a prayer for declaring the beach a notified turtle nesting site.
The court allowed the request, granting one week's time during the hearing on Monday. The Public Interest Litigation alleges systematic failure by authorities to curb activities disturbing the endangered species.
Last week, notices were issued to the Goa government, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden, the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority, and the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
The petitioner stated that the beach recorded significant nesting activity, including 1,868 eggs laid in early 2024, but faces continued disturbance from unregulated commercial operations, such as loud music, bright artificial lighting, fireworks, and fishing activity, during the November-May nesting season.
The plea further stated that artificial lighting disorients hatchlings, drawing them inland instead of toward the sea, increasing mortality.
The matter will now be heard on April 8.
