Team Herald
MARGAO: The Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) has come under fire for allegedly demolishing a local mobile cart and excavating the roadside at Benaulim beach, citing encroachment on government land. This action has not been well received by residents and taxi drivers, who assert that the owner was not given prior notice.
The kiosk owner, with assistance from local taxi drivers, managed to salvage some belongings during the demolition. However, many community members have raised concerns about the extent of the excavation, particularly along the road leading to a nearby starred resort. Local resident Rudolf Barretto stated, “Removal of encroachment doesn’t require excavation, especially when it’s just a mobile cart without any foundation.” He also criticized officials for failing to provide clear answers regarding the permissions for the excavation.
Taxi drivers who utilized the area as a parking stand suspect that the GTDC’s actions may be linked to plans to lease the property, including a car park, to a private entity. In response to public protests, officials have since leveled the roadside, but concerns persist regarding safety hazards posed by the remaining trench, particularly for nighttime traffic.
The Benaulim Panchayat has issued a stop-work order to the GTDC. Barretto emphasized that the trench poses a danger to both pedestrians and vehicles after dark. He also condemned what he perceives as selective enforcement, noting that other court-ordered demolitions have been delayed due to manpower issues, while the government acted swiftly in this instance.