The Bombay High Court at Goa dismissed a 2014 Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Reuben Franco regarding the non-removal of shacks and construction of septic tanks on Calangute beach. The court found the petition “infructuous” since the latest comprehensive shack policies, including the Goa Shack Policy 2023-2026, now mandate portable toilet facilities instead of septic tanks and soak pits, thereby addressing the issues raised in the PIL. The policy enforces environmental protection norms, prohibits septic tanks, and mandates compliance with noise and waste disposal rules, fulfilling the petition’s demands. Moreover, an affidavit in 2014 confirmed that shacks from the 2012-2013 season were fully removed at that time
The Goa Shack Policy 2023-2026 permits seasonal shacks operated mainly by unemployed Goans, with strict regulatory conditions, including the mandatory use of portable toilets, prohibition of septic tanks, and environmental safeguards. This policy aims to protect beach environments and ensure lawful operation of shacks along beaches like Calangute. Non-compliance leads to license cancellations and shack demolitions at the operator's cost.
Thus, the court’s dismissal reflects the policy improvements and effective enforcement measures taken since the PIL was filed, making the litigation moot.