GAURESH SATTARKAR
Residents of Khamamol-Curchorem have submit ted a formal complaint to the Chief Officer and Chairperson of the Cur chorem-Cacora Municipal Council (CCMC) alleging unauthorised con struction and encroachment by a Pan jim-based private company. The complaint, signed by several lo cal residents, raises serious concerns regarding the construction of two jet ties or jetty-like structures along the riverfront. According to the complain ants, publicly available satellite im agery indicates that these structures were not in existence prior to Decem ber 2021. Furthermore, the Deed of Sale dated May 19, 2020 reportedly makes no reference to any such jet ty structures at the time of property transfer. Led by social activist Sushant Vasta, residents allege that the constructions were undertaken under the guise of a “repair” No Objection Certificate (NOC) issued by the municipal coun cil. However, they contend that the present works amount to entirely new constructions rather than permissible repairs. In the complaint, they further al leged violations including construc tion of permanent structures with roof terraces allegedly not covered under the municipal NOC, execution of land filling and RCC works despite express conditions prohibiting RCC activity, erection of a compound wall approximately six metres high with additional metal sheet extensions, in stallation of a three-metre sliding gate not reflected in the approved plans, obstruction of a traditional rainwater drainage channel, raising concerns about potential flooding and environ mental damage, alleged blockage of customary public access to the river, affecting local residents and tradition al fishing activities. They asserted that these actions prima facie constitute violations of the Goa Municipalities Act, applicable building regulations, and environ mental safeguards. During a meeting held in the pres ence of the chairperson of the mu nicipal council, residents stated that they were assured that a detailed site inspection would be conducted within one week, immediate stop-work or ders would be issued if irregularities found, strict action, including demo lition of unauthorised constructions, would follow upon confirmation of violations and that citizens would be allowed to remain present during council deliberations on the issue. The residents have requested im mediate inspection, issuance of a stop work notice, initiation of demolition proceedings where necessary, resto ration of public access, and revival of the natural drainage channel. They have also sought a written ac tion taken report within seven days. Copies of the complaint have been forwarded to the Directorate of Urban Development, Government of Goa. As of now, municipal authorities have not issued an official public statement. “For the past three years, we have consistently followed up with the mu nicipality regarding the construction of the jetty and associated structures. However, instead of transparency, there has been a persistent reluctance to disclose crucial details relating to construction licences and mandatory approvals required for such develop ments. The public deserves clarity and accountability,” Aditya Dessai said.
