Two individuals have been booked by the Ponda police for illegal plotting, construction, and hill cutting in an orchard zone at Pilliem, Dharbandora. The unauthorized activities were carried out without the required approval from the Town Planner, violating strict land-use regulations designed to protect ecologically sensitive orchard zones.
The incident was uncovered following complaints and vigilant monitoring by local authorities tasked with overseeing land use and environmental protection in the region. Orchard zones in Goa are designated areas where agricultural preservation is prioritized, and any alteration such as construction or hill cutting must receive formal sanction to ensure compliance with environmental and zoning laws. Unauthorized work not only contravenes legal frameworks but also poses serious environmental risks.
Hill cutting, as observed in this case, can destabilize terrain, increase erosion, and threaten the green cover that is vital for maintaining ecological balance. Such activity in orchard zones risks damaging agricultural productivity and disrupts natural water management systems, potentially leading to landslides or soil degradation.