The Anjuna-Vagator coastline, a tourist hotspot, hosts numerous Goan businesses serving visitors. However, these businesses face uncertainty as the government moves to seal 175 establishments in response to a high court order, claiming they’re in the ‘No Development Zone.’
Locals in Anjuna and Vagator shut their businesses in protest, citing the state’s delay in finalizing the Coastal Zone Management Plan, which they argue harms the local economy. The recent High Court decision to seal these establishments, some pre-existing CRZ implementation, will have widespread consequences.
Despite central regulations prohibiting CRZ business, state intervention could allow it, benefiting Goa’s tourism-reliant economy and locals’ livelihoods. Safeguarding their interests, the government must act swiftly, potentially declaring Anjuna village as CRZ II, balancing tourism and environmental concerns.
