Illegal structures along Goa’s coastline reflect a continuing failure in environmental regulation and enforcement. Numerous applications have been submitted to regularise unauthorised constructions, particularly along the Calangute“Baga“Candolim belt, where development has expanded unchecked. While tourism brings major revenue to the State, widespread violations of land and coastal regulations point to persistent illegal activity in high-traffic areas. Despite scrutiny by the Goa High Court, demolition drives remain slow and encroachments continue, with authorities often failing to act decisively. As a result, Goa’s landscape has been significantly altered by constructions lacking legal approval, putting its fragile ecosystem at risk. Concerns remain over loopholes in land ownership and planning laws that are being exploited by those responsible for enforcement. Departments such as electricity and public works should avoid extending services to illegal structures. Although the High Court has repeatedly taken suo motu cognisance of CRZ violations, the problem persists across coastal Goa areas.
