Retired Justice Ferdino Rebello has raised serious concerns over illegal hill cutting and land conversion activities in Goa, warning that such practices are causing irreversible damage to the environment and adversely affecting local communities. Speaking at a public meeting and during discussions with state authorities, Rebello said the unchecked destruction of hills, paddy fields, and low-lying areas threatens Goa’s ecological balance and long-term sustainability.
Rebello argued that permissions for hill and slope cutting are being granted without a proper legal framework under the Town and Country Planning (TCP) Act. He alleged that existing guidelines used to approve such activities lack statutory backing and called for an immediate halt to further permissions until the matter is reviewed.
The former judge also submitted a 10-point citizens’ charter to Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, seeking reforms to protect Goa’s environment, heritage, and democratic rights. Among the key demands are stricter controls on hill cutting, preservation of agricultural lands, and greater transparency in planning decisions.
Rebello emphasized that development should not come at the cost of environmental destruction and urged citizens to remain actively involved in safeguarding Goa’s natural resources. He warned that continued degradation of hills and green spaces could have lasting consequences for future generations.
