Goa’s Green Haven at Risk: Calangute Panchayat Uncovers Illegal Construction”

“Goa’s Green Haven at Risk: Calangute Panchayat Uncovers Illegal Construction”
Calangute: A recent site inspection conducted by the Calangute panchayat at a hillside property in Gauravaddo, Calangute, has revealed alleged illegal construction and hill-cutting. The inspection, prompted by complaints from a local NGO, was attended by Panchayat Secretary Arjun Velip, the Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC), and the Calangute Constituency Forum (CCF) panel.
CCF President Premanand Divkar stated that the construction was completely illegal, carried out without necessary permissions from the Town and Country Planning Department or the panchayat. During the inspection, the property owner failed to produce the required permissions .
The BMC panel emphasized the significance of preserving the hillside, home to unique flora and fauna. “The destruction of this habitat will lead to loss of biodiversity and disrupt the ecological balance. Hill cutting and subsequent environmental degradation will have severe and irreversible impacts,” they warned.
The inspection highlights the importance of adherence to environmental regulations and the need for swift action against unauthorized construction. The Calangute panchayat’s proactive approach demonstrates its commitment to protecting the region’s natural beauty and ecological balance