The commencement of the highly anticipated twin towers project atop the new Zuari bridge in Goa has been delayed. The project, which was slated to begin work this year, is still awaiting a crucial Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) clearance from the state authorities.
GCZMA Inspection Reveals Hurdles
A site inspection for the project was carried out by a team of experts from the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) on November 18. However, the authority only deliberated on the findings of the inspection report in its meeting held on December 24.
Following this meeting, the GCZMA communicated to the contractors, Bhopal-based Dilip Buildcon, and the Public Works Department (PWD) that additional clearances are mandatory. The project requires approvals from the forest department and the Goa State Pollution Control Board before the GCZMA can grant its final nod.
Mangroves and Environmental Assessments
The inspection report highlighted a significant environmental consideration: the presence of some mangroves within the proposed project area. This specific issue necessitates separate clearance from the forest department.
As per regulations, the project proponents must submit a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report and deliver a detailed presentation to the GCZMA. This presentation must outline potential environmental impacts and demonstrate compliance with CRZ rules. While a draft CRZ Delineation Study Report prepared by CSIR-NIO, Goa has been submitted, the final report is still pending with the authority.
Project Scope and GCZMA Directives
The twin towers project envisions more than just the observatories. On the ground below the bridge on the Agasaim side—currently the site of Dilip Buildcon's temporary office—plans include:
- A children’s play area
- Toilets and a pantry
- A ticket booth and security cabin
- An administrative building
A 120-meter long and 12-meter wide walkway bridge is proposed to connect this area to the base of the towers. From there, high-speed elevators would transport visitors to the observatories.
The GCZMA report classified the project site as falling within multiple sensitive zones: CRZ-IA (mangrove and mangrove buffer), CRZ-III (No Development Zone for river/creek), CRZ-IB (water body), and a fishing zone. In its December 24 decision, the authority directed the project proponents to:
- Clarify permissions from the Pollution Control Board and Forest Department regarding the mangroves.
- Submit a detailed reply addressing all observations raised in the inspection report.
These steps are now critical prerequisites for the project to move forward and secure the essential CRZ clearance, leaving the ambitious twin towers in a state of suspension until all environmental and regulatory boxes are checked.
