Team Herald
PANJIM: The Goa State Environment Impact Assessment Authority (Goa-SEIAA) has ordered a complete halt to construction activities undertaken by Worldwide Resorts and Entertainment Pvt Ltd at Bambolim, citing the absence of mandatory environmental clearance
under the EIA Notification, 2006.
The directive, issued on April 28 by Goa-SEIAA Member Secretary and Director (Environment) Sachin Desai, states that the company’s application for environmental clearance remains pending and that ongoing civil work constitutes a violation of environmental regulations. The authority has instructed the company to immediately cease all construction operations at the site.
Non-compliance with the order could lead to legal action under Section 15 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, which prescribes penalties including imprisonment and fines.
"You are directed to ensure that no civil work of whatsoever kind and nature is carried out at said site. Failure to comply with the directions shall attract action under Section 15 of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 which include imprisonment or fine," the order said.
The move follows rising public concern over alleged ecological damage in the area. Environmental groups have accused the developer of unauthorised tree cutting and excavation on the hillside, which they say has harmed natural aquifers and destabilised fragile terrain. In recent days, activists have staged candlelight protests demanding a stop to construction and the restoration of damaged landscapes.