CANACONA: Illegal extraction of sand to set up temporary shacks and huts for tourists is going on in full swing at the beaches of Palolem Patnem, Columb, Galgibaga and Agonda.
A local environmentalist, on condition of anonymity, said that the sand extraction is a blatant violation of environmental laws and strict action should be taken against the offenders to protect the flora and fauna of the beaches.
He further stated that Canacona Deputy Collector Chandrakant Shetkar had sought a detailed report from his subordinates regarding illegal activities, if any, taking place along the coastline and also in the taluka.
Due to sand extraction, there is visible sign of erosion and sea water may make inroads further up the beach, especially during high tide.
As per environmentalists who have questioned the authorities, commercial operators along the coastline are habitual in extracting sand with the blessing of elected representatives.
Earlier, some shack and tent owners used to import sand from Karwar, but after the ban on sand export from there, they found a cheap and easy way to fulfill their aptitude by siphoning sand from the coastline.
Traditional fisherman Nagesh Pagui said that due to sand extraction, the fishermen are finding it very difficult to move their canoes and boats to the shore, especially during low tide.
Divakar Naik, retired government employee, stated that Agonda and Galgibaga beaches are famous for being nesting sites for olive ridley turtles.
