Goa Authorities Intensify Crackdown on Unauthorized Structures
Goa authorities continued their aggressive drive against unauthorized structures in eco-sensitive areas this week. They sealed five restaurants across North and South Goa districts for serious compliance violations.
Former Chief Minister's Property Sealed in Arambol
The Pernem deputy collector sealed Ottello restaurant at Arambol on Thursday. This establishment operates on property owned by former chief minister Laxmikant Parsekar. Authorities took action after discovering construction on a protected salt pan area.
Parsekar quickly distanced himself from the restaurant's operations. "I own the property but I have leased it out," the former CM stated. "I run schools and colleges, not hotels."
He explained leasing two properties for 10 and 15 years respectively. "The person leasing the land must follow all legal compliances," Parsekar emphasized. "If they operate something illegally, they bear responsibility, not me. As the landowner, I expect my rent, but violations are the lessee's concern."
The former chief minister added he remains unconcerned about whether authorities seal or shut down establishments on his leased properties.
Clear Violations Documented in Official Order
The Pernem taluka mamlatdar's report detailed specific violations at survey number 52/1 in Arambol. Officials noted a restaurant named Ottello operating with approximately 700 square meters of plinth area. This included wooden cottages erected on permanent foundations.
Most concerning was a wooden pathway or bridge constructed directly within water bodies. The establishment operated without obtaining valid conversion sanads or necessary permissions from relevant authorities.
Historical records identify the Arambol field as "Mithgar Madlawada," which translates to salt pan. Survey plans clearly depict a major portion of the plot as water body. The Regional Plan 2021 also designates this land as protected salt pan area.
South Goa Joint Team Seals Four Additional Restaurants
In separate action, a joint team conducted inspections across South Goa. The team included officials from the directorate of fire and emergency services, Public Works Department, and South Goa Collector's office.
They sealed four establishments after random inspections revealed serious compliance failures:
- 'Your Story' restaurant in Benaulim
- Fishland bar and restaurant in Colva
- Galeria restaurant in Colva
- Colmar resort in Colva
These establishments failed to obtain required approvals within specified timeframes despite previous notices.
Multiple Safety Violations Discovered
Inspections uncovered alarming safety gaps at the sealed restaurants. Officials reported absence of mandatory licenses and statutory approvals. Fire safety protocols received particular attention, with establishments failing to meet basic requirements.
Authorities had previously served show cause notices to these businesses. They provided opportunities to explain their positions and rectify violations before taking sealing action.
South Goa collector Egna Cleetus provided context about the ongoing compliance drive. "In December 2025, our committee issued notices to 38 establishments after observing violations," she explained. "We're now conducting random visits to check compliance status. These businesses received ample time to address issues."
The crackdown demonstrates Goa authorities' renewed commitment to enforcing building regulations and protecting eco-sensitive zones. Both tourism establishments and residential structures face increased scrutiny as officials prioritize environmental protection and public safety.
