Team Herald
MARGAO: A silent march was staged in Canacona by shack operators and other tourism stakeholders in protest against the recent sealing of tourism structures at Agonda beach, following a High Court order. The march, which began from Chaudi and proceeded to the Deputy Collector’s office, saw participation from various quarters, including local traders, political figures, taxi drivers, and tourism business owners.
The demonstration was led by Dharmesh Saglani, president of the All-Goa Private Property Shacks and Huts Association and concluded with the submission of a memorandum to Deputy Collector Madhu Narvekar. They also alleged selective action by authorities, claiming that while their businesses were being shut down, illegalities by a certain company, including the construction of an unauthorised road leading to a hilltop and an iron gate within 200 metres of the high tide line, remained unchecked.
Goa Forward Party (GFP) Leader Vikas Bhagat pointed out that the sealed tourism structures were situated 300 to 500 metres from the turtle nesting zone, arguing that many of them did not even interfere with turtle breeding areas. “Even places where turtles do not lay eggs have been sealed,” he said, warning that outside influences seeking to intimidate Goans would not be tolerated.
However, shortly after the protest and memorandum submission, the remaining nine tourism structures at Agonda were sealed under the High Court’s directive. Authorities had already sealed 54 establishments in the previous week—27 each on Thursday and Friday—before pausing over the weekend.
Authorities also disconnected water and electricity supplies to prevent the structures from being used for commercial activities. Sources revealed that over 200 foreign tourists, along with an unspecified number of domestic visitors, were present in these accommodations when the court order was issued. They were either relocated or asked to check out, further adding to the disruption caused by the sudden enforcement action.