NT Reporter
Panaji
The National Green Tribunal (NGT), Western Zone Bench, Pune, has granted interim relief in a case challenging construction activity at the Colva beach, restraining the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) from proceeding with proposed shops under the ‘Swadesh Darshan 2.0’ Scheme until further orders.
The order came on an application filed by the Colva Civic and Consumer Forum, which challenged a no objection certificate dated May 2, 2025, issued by the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) permitting temporary structures at the site.
The applicant said the area falls within Coastal Regulation Zone categories, including CRZ-I and CRZ-III, where construction activity is restricted. June 26 and December 2, 2024, site inspection reports, cited in the proceedings, said several survey numbers fall within no development zones and ecologically-sensitive stretches.
The Tribunal said the applicant raised concerns regarding violations of the CRZ Notification, 2011, particularly provisions that prohibit new construction within NDZ areas except for limited activities benefiting traditional coastal communities.
The bench said that despite serving of notice, GTDC and GCZMA had not filed replies contesting the claims.
“In view of the absence of response from the respondents and the prima facie case made out, we grant interim relief,” the Tribunal said, directing that no construction shall be undertaken pursuant to the NOC until the next date of hearing.
The matter has been posted for further hearing on August 7, when responses from the authorities are expected.
