NT Reporter
Panaji
The High Court of Bombay at Goa on Monday issued a notice, returnable on March 23, to the Captain of Ports in a contempt petition related to alleged illegal sand extraction.
The petitioner, the Goa River Sand Protectors Network, has alleged wilful disobedience of directions contained in the judgment and October 15, 2025 order passed by the court.
The petitioner alleged that activities prohibited by the court are still ongoing and that there has been no compliance with the directions issued. Illegal sand mining is continuing, petitioner’s counsel said.
The petitioner’s counsel referred to a circular issued by Captain of Ports Octavio A Rodrigues stating that many canoes and crafts are operating in the inland waters of Goa without registration numbers and are indulging in illegal sand extraction, which is an offence as per rules.
The circular warned all owners of canoes and crafts involved in illegal sand mining, and those
without registration numbers, not to operate in the river or be found on the river bank or within 100 metres of government riverine land. It said that any canoe or craft found in violation of the rules shall be confiscated by the Port Authority.
However, the petitioner stated that the authority has failed to take action.
The High Court observed that there are allegations
of disobedience of its orders and expressed concern
that despite directions, illegal sand mining is allegedly taking place, with several instances brought to its notice.
The matter will be heard next on March 23.
