Team Goemkarponn
PORVORIM: The long-pending issue of illegal encroachments on pavements and roadside areas in Margao has once again reached the spotlight after a contempt petition was filed before the High Court against the Margao Municipal Council (MMC).
Senior power department official and civic activist Kashinath Shetye has approached the High Court alleging non-compliance of earlier court directives regarding the removal of encroachments and kiosks near the Aquem Power House area. Acting on the petition, the High Court has issued notice to MMC Chief Officer Madhu Narvekar, directing him to respond by June 8, 2026.
In the petition, Shetye referred to the High Court’s order passed on October 18, 2000 in Writ Petition No. 148 of 1997, along with directions issued on March 6, 2025 in a suo motu PIL concerning illegal encroachments on public spaces.
The petitioner stated that several complaints were submitted to the authorities on May 2, 2025 and April 8, 2026 highlighting the existence of unauthorised kiosks and structures occupying footpaths and roadside stretches.
According to the petition, the South Goa Collector had issued instructions on May 9, 2025 directing the MMC to clear the encroachments. Similar directions were reportedly issued earlier by the Deputy Collector, South Goa, on January 22, 2025.
Shetye further pointed out that the Executive Engineer of the Electricity Department had also written to the civic body seeking removal of the encroachments, warning that legal proceedings would be initiated if no action was taken.
The petition additionally stated that the Deputy Director of Urban Development had instructed the MMC on May 22, 2025 to act within three days. However, despite repeated communications from various government authorities, no concrete action was allegedly initiated by the municipal body.
Describing the inaction as deliberate and wilful disobedience of court directives, the petitioner argued that the MMC Chief Officer was fully aware of the legal obligations and failed to enforce the law.
The contempt proceedings have triggered fresh discussions within civic circles and among residents over the growing number of roadside stalls, kiosks and other encroachments across Margao city, particularly on pavements and road-widening zones.
There is now increasing expectation that the High Court proceedings could compel the municipal authorities to launch a large-scale drive against illegal structures and roadside gaddas operating in public spaces. At the same time, concerns are being expressed in some quarters that strict judicial directions could lead to widespread demolition of unauthorised occupations across the city.
