PANJIM: Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) has issued a show cause notice to a construction company for allegedly carrying out illegal activity in violation of the Environment Protection Act.
The notice, issued to Devyani International Pvt Ltd/R K Jaipuria & Sons, comes following a complaint filed by Utorda resident Joao Pereira pointing to the illegal construction of a swimming pool and compound wall at Betalbatim within the NDZ.
As per the complainant, the illegal activity is being carried out without obtaining permission from the concerned authorities.
GCZMA, taking cognizance of the complaint issued a show cause notice to the firm seeking reply as to why a direction to demolish the structures and to restore the land to its original condition should not be issued. “You are directed to ensure that no civil work of whatsoever kind and nature is carried out at the site,” the notice issued by Member Secretary S Kothwale reads.
“The alleged illegal construction is highly detrimental to the coastal ecosystem/riverine ecosystem. Further it is observed that you have not obtained any prior approval of the GCZMA for the purpose of alleged construction as required under the CRZ notification 1991/2011,” GCZMA observed. It is learnt that the town planner had overlooked the illegalities under the CRZ during its inspection earlier.
The notice returnable before December 15 has asked the respondent to submit construction/reconstruction/repair license/approvals if any issued by related agencies including GCZMA.
