The Bombay High Court at Goa has directed the demolition of 56 unauthorised structures built near Morjim Beach, an ecologically sensitive zone known for nesting of the endangered Olive Ridley turtles. The court has given a 10-day deadline for authorities to carry out the demolition and restore the land to its natural state. This action comes after the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) had issued an earlier demolition order in February 2025, which was not enforced due to the lack of a dedicated demolition team.
Hearing the matter, Justices Bharati Dangre and Valmiki Menezes criticised the delay and instructed the Deputy Collector and Sub-Divisional Officer of Pernem to mobilise the required team immediately. The bench also warned that continued inaction could lead to personal liability for officials, including covering the cost of demolition themselves. The directive reinforces the court’s commitment to upholding environmental regulations and protecting Goa’s vulnerable coastal habitats from illegal encroachments.
