The Goa State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (Goa-SEIAA) has granted environmental clearance to the controversial Bambolim commercial project by Worldwide Resorts & Entertainment Pvt Ltd. The project, previously stalled due to unauthorized construction without prior clearance, received approval following a recommendation from the Goa State Expert Appraisal Committee (SEAC) during an October 10 meeting.
SEIAA has mandated that the proponent secure all necessary permissions from relevant agencies, including the Town and Country Planning Department, and strictly adhere to local building bylaws for construction. Concerns were raised by Goa Engineering College (GCE) regarding safety issues linked to hill-cutting and groundwater. The GCE report emphasized the urgent need for permanent retaining structures and backfilling for road and nearby building safety.
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Previously, the project faced protests led by St Andre MLA Viresh Borkar and environmental activists alleging illegal digging damaging aquifers. Despite these protests and a stop-work order, SEIAA approved the environmental clearance with stringent conditions to ensure regulatory compliance and safety during construction. The decision allows the resumption of work.
