The recent decision of the High Court of Bombay at Goa to appoint senior advocate SD Lotlikar as Amicus Curiae regarding advertising hoardings along highways is welcome. However, the scope of this exercise should be extended to major district and village roads across Goa. Numerous advertising boards are appearing along village roads, particularly in North Goa, including on narrow road dividers and close to carriageways. Such installations can obstruct visibility, distract motorists and compromise road safety, contributing to accidents. They also deface public spaces and raise questions about lost revenue to local bodies that permit such commercial activity. The High Court should consider directing the Amicus Curiae to examine similar violations on all Goan roads, including instances where PWD and other authorities may have overlooked safety regulations. The casual attitude of “sab kuch chalta hai” must end. Pollution, traffic and construction violations cannot be ignored, especially during public holidays. Roadside commercial structures appearing overnight also demand strict scrutiny. Authorities must enforce the law impartially, protect public safety and ensure accountability. Goa’s roads and public spaces cannot be sacrificed for private commercial interests.
GREGORY E D'SOUZA, Siolim
