Team Herald
PANJIM: Locals of Taleigao are up in arms over the constant delaying tactics of the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) in taking action over the construction of a concrete wall along Vainguinim beach. On Tuesday GCZMA referred to these complaints filed by the local fishing community and the Vainguinim Valley Residents Association (VVRA) and called for yet another personal hearing into the matter on Thursday.
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The construction of the wall was completed towards the end of May despite protests against it and complaints filed with the GCZMA when the construction work had begun in April.
This fresh hearing incidentally is about the first two of the three inspections that have been held on the beach.
Not only are the locals exasperated over what they say is ‘deliberate time-buying tactic’, they have also questioned why the GCZMA is silent about the third inspection.
For perspective, the first inspection was held on April 20, the second inspection was held on April 23 and the third inspection was held on June 28.
It is to be noted that GCZMA had issued a show-cause notice after the second inspection where its own expert members recommended that a stop-work order be issued; whereas the third inspection was carried out by the North Goa Additional Collector.
Earlier this month, VVRA had approached the High Court and GCZMA had sought two months to deal with the matter but were given only six weeks by the court.
What has upset the locals the most is that even though they raised objections before the wall was built; it’s been nearly three months since the work on the concrete wall was completed. Moreover, the GCZMA has failed to share the report of the third inspection even though over a month and a half has passed.
Last month, the traditional fishermen had complained about how the condition of the beach that is beyond the concrete wall has deteriorated badly. The local community has also lamented that the use of the beach for the public has been restricted.
“It is clear that the government is more interested in only extending this or that deadline instead of taking action. Even the Environment Minister spoke about taking action once the report is ready. The actions of GCZMA have been disappointing as they are allowing the concrete beach despite its own members pointing out to clear violations,” said a local resident.
