Daijiworld Media Network - Anjuna

Anjuna, Mar 10: Residents of Anjuna-Vagator have voiced strong opposition against the alleged destruction of sand dunes and vegetation on a sea-facing property linked to Calangute MLA Michael Lobo. The villagers are demanding immediate revocation of any licenses granted for development at the site, citing its ecological significance and protected status.

The contested land, located on Vagator Beach, falls within a No Development Zone (NDZ) and is situated just 44 meters from the High Tide Line (HTL), where permanent construction is strictly prohibited. However, deep tyre tracks in the sand, stacks of construction materials, and the presence of a JCB at one end of the property have raised suspicions of illegal development.

Local resident Ravi Harmalkar lamented the loss of sand dunes and vegetation, recalling that the area was once a favorite spot for picnics and was a known turtle nesting ground. "The Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) must not grant any permission for construction here. If any has already been issued, it should be revoked immediately," he urged.

Another resident, Parvati Nagvenkar, questioned how any construction permissions were granted in a protected area. "Even if these are temporary structures, there is always a risk of them becoming permanent. Temporary structures should be made of eco-friendly materials like bamboo and wood," she added.

Activist Desmond Alvares has formally complained to the chief secretary and GCZMA, alleging that nearly 40 truckloads of material had been removed from the site and dumped elsewhere. "It is distressing to see this destruction being carried out under the influence of a local MLA," he stated.

On Saturday, a social media campaign urged residents to gather in protest against the destruction, but only a handful of people turned up on Sunday. Despite the low turnout, the locals remain firm in their demand for strict action against unauthorized construction and environmental damage in the area.