The Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) has identified significant violations on Varca and Cavelossim beaches in Salcete, where unauthorized construction activities have led to the destruction of sand dunes and associated vegetation. The violations came to light following complaints filed by the tourism department and a local MLA.
Violations on Varca Beach
The tourism department lodged a complaint with the GCZMA last year, alleging that vehicles were illegally plying on Varca beach and extracting sand, thereby altering natural features such as sand dunes. In response, the authority dispatched expert members for a site inspection, which confirmed what the report described as “gross illegalities at Pedda, Dumottem.” The violations were observed near a resort.
The inspection report noted: “It was observed that sand was being illegally extracted from the sand dune and mixed with laterite soil (red murram) at the site. A permanent platform is observed at the location, along with few temporary structures. Red murram is extensively dumped at the site, altering the natural landscape.” Furthermore, in the intertidal zone of the beach, metal-fabricated barricades and large black bags filled with sand were found dumped. The report stated that these sacks were obstructing free beach access and impacting the natural movement of water, sand, and marine life. Consequently, the GCZMA has issued show cause notices to the violators and initiated proceedings.
Illegal Road Construction on Cavelossim Beach
In a separate case, Benaulim MLA Venzy Veigas filed a complaint last year regarding the illegal construction of a road in the no-development zone of the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) in Cavelossim. The complaint alleged that violators were building a road by cutting through sand dunes and destroying thick vegetation across four survey numbers. The GCZMA conducted a site inspection, which confirmed the “gross illegal” construction in violation of the CRZ Notification of 2011. By the time of the inspection, the road had already been completed, connecting the existing village road and ending at the beach. Following the inspection, the GCZMA issued notices to the violators to initiate proceedings against the illegalities.
The GCZMA continues to monitor coastal areas to prevent further environmental damage and ensure compliance with coastal regulations.
