NT Reporter
Panaji
Stating that the struggle to protect Goa’s environment would be a long one, retired Chief Justice of the Allahabad High Court Justice (retd) Ferdino Rebello on Saturday said that “this is not a T20 match but a long innings”. He said that the movement would continue until the state’s carrying capacity and ecological integrity are safeguarded.
Justice (retd) Rebello outlined a long-term strategy for the ‘Enough is Enough’ movement, combining legal action with sustained public protests to address environmental and infrastructure concerns in Goa.
Speaking to the media after a core committee meeting, Rebello expressed concern over the lack of financial allocation in the recent state Budget for carrying capacity studies, particularly in relation to the rapid expansion of building construction. He warned that ignoring such limits could lead to a collapse of infrastructure and worsen problems such as groundwater depletion.
The movement plans to adopt a two-pronged strategy by combining legal challenges with public mobilisation. Rebello said the group is gathering material for petitions on several environmental issues, including the Mirabag project, where he alleged that no ecological impact study had been conducted despite concerns over saline water intrusion.
He said that if the government fails to act on environmental concerns, the public may choose a government that is willing to safeguard the state’s ecological balance. As part of its outreach efforts, the movement plans to inaugurate a permanent office in Panaji next week to serve as a centre for public interaction. Social media handles and a website are also expected to be launched within seven days to communicate the movement’s objectives.
Rebello also referred to a proposed legal challenge regarding casino vessels operating in the Mandovi river. He claimed that between April 1, 2023, and January 11, 2025, there was no valid notification under Section 13A permitting gaming on board vessels and alleged that retrospective notifications were later issued.
He reiterated the demand that casinos be shifted to territorial waters in accordance with the law and the conditions of their licences.
