MARGAO: In a recent development, an inspection report by the Goa State Biodiversity Board (GSBB) has urged a halt to the ongoing Sernabatim beach restoration until the resort provides technical justification and addresses concerns raised during the inspection.
The report, compiled by Eng Shruthi V Adpaikar and approved by GSBB Member Secretary Dr Pradip V Sarmokadam, emphasizes the need for the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) to take necessary actions under the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) regulations.
During the inspection, it was noted that the mandated restoration work, directed by GCZMA, had not been executed properly. Given that the construction of a wall had already taken place, despite the fact it was supposed to be built under the guidance of GSBB as per the directions of GCZMA, prompted the GSBB inspection team to recommend the involvement of reputable institutions such as IIT for a stability assessment.
The inspection suggested the hotel provide a verified survey plan, an approved gabion wall plan, and technical justification for stability. Until such justifications are submitted and approved by GCZMA, the report recommends halting the work on site.
Observations from the inspection include the absence of technical experts from the resort, insufficient details about the constructed Gabion wall, and the necessity for calculations and technical drawings. The new concrete wall’s placement, 3.45 meters away from the original, also raised concerns about foundation depth and technical drawings.
Considering the dynamic nature of sand dunes, the report stressed the need for structures to adapt to the beach environment. It highlighted discrepancies in wall alignments and called for accessing sand dune data to determine the beach’s original position. The absence of approvals for the implemented plan and the failure to integrate environmental considerations were also noted.
In summary, the report urges a pause in the restoration work until the hotel provides comprehensive technical justifications and addresses the concerns outlined during the inspection, emphasizing the importance of adhering to environmental considerations and obtaining necessary approvals.
