Daijiworld Media Network – Karwar

Karwar, March 9: The taluk administration has launched a major crackdown on resorts allegedly built in violation of Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) norms near Gokarna in Kumta taluk of Uttara Kannada district.

Kumta tahsildar Shrikrishna has ordered the removal of 44 "unauthorised" resorts constructed along the Arabian Sea coast in violation of Coastal Regulation Zone norms. The structures are located in coastal stretches including Dubbanasashi and Nadumaskeri.

However, owners of 16 of the 44 resorts have obtained a stay order from the Karnataka high court, preventing authorities from proceeding with their demolition for now.

Of the remaining 28 resorts, owners of seven have reportedly begun dismantling the structures voluntarily. The other 21 resorts will be sealed by the taluk administration and removed in accordance with the rules, Kumta Tahsildar Shrikrishna told TV9 Kannada.

Meanwhile, prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita have been imposed to prevent any untoward incidents during the eviction operation.

The restrictions have remained in effect in Dubbanasashi, Gangekolla and Bhavikodla from 10 am on March 9 until 10 am on March 10. The order has been issued by Kumta assistant commissioner Shravana Kumar.

Protest erupts in Dubbanasashi

Meanwhile, resort owners and workers staged a protest in Dubbanasashi opposing the eviction drive. MLA Dinakar Shetty visited the protest site and voiced his support, raising slogans and declaring, “We will not allow the resorts to be removed. I am with you. Justice must be done.”

Following the developments, tension has prevailed along the coastal belt near Gokarna, prompting the taluk administration to enforce tight security measures in the area.