Panaji, Goa: The Captain of Ports Department (COP) has made it mandatory to obtain prior permission before undertaking any development work in Goa’s inland waters, including major rivers such as the Mandovi and Zuari.
The directive aims to regulate activities in the state’s waterways, safeguard navigation, and ensure that development projects comply with applicable environmental and maritime regulations.
Prior Approval Now Mandatory
Under the new directive, individuals, government agencies, contractors, and private developers must secure approval from the Captain of Ports Department before commencing any construction or development work within inland waterways.
The requirement applies to activities that may affect river channels, navigation routes, embankments, jetties, bridges, pontoons, pipelines, cable laying, dredging, and other infrastructure projects.
Officials said the move is intended to streamline approvals and prevent unauthorised work in sensitive water bodies.
Protecting Goa’s Rivers
Goa’s inland waterways, particularly the Mandovi and Zuari rivers, play an important role in transportation, tourism, fishing, and commerce.
Authorities noted that unregulated construction or excavation can obstruct navigation, damage river ecosystems, and create safety hazards for vessels operating in these waterways.
The new approval process is expected to help preserve the ecological balance of Goa’s rivers while ensuring sustainable development.
Ensuring Safe Navigation
The Captain of Ports Department is responsible for maintaining navigational safety across Goa’s inland and coastal waters.
Officials stated that prior scrutiny of proposed projects will help identify potential risks to vessel movement and enable necessary safeguards before work begins.
The department will examine project proposals to ensure they do not interfere with navigation channels or maritime operations.
Compliance with Regulatory Framework
Developers and executing agencies have been advised to comply with all statutory requirements before initiating work in inland water areas.
Projects may also require approvals from other government departments depending on their nature, including environmental and coastal regulation authorities.
Failure to obtain the required permissions could invite legal action under applicable laws and regulations.
Key Highlights
- The Captain of Ports Department has made prior permission mandatory for development works in Goa’s inland waters.
- The directive covers rivers including the Mandovi and Zuari.
- The move aims to protect navigation, river ecosystems, and public safety.
- Government agencies, contractors, and private developers must obtain approval before starting projects.
- Authorities have warned that unauthorised works may face legal action.
The Captain of Ports Department’s latest directive reinforces the importance of regulated development in Goa’s inland waterways. By making prior approval mandatory, the government aims to balance infrastructure development with environmental protection and navigational safety, ensuring that projects along the Mandovi, Zuari, and other rivers are carried out responsibly and in accordance with the law.
