Goemkapronn desk
CALANGUTE: A construction project near the historic Fort Aguada has raised alarm within the local community, sparking protests and formal complaints about violations of heritage and environmental laws.
The Calangute Constituency Forum, representing concerned citizens, has brought to the attention of the Candolim Village Panchayat a complaint against the construction underway on property bearing Survey No. 96/0 at Sinquerim.
According to the complaint, the construction falls within a *Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ-1A), an area deemed *ecologically sensitive, where new development is heavily restricted. The location is also adjacent to the protected *Aguada Fort, a designated Archaeological Heritage site under the *Ancient Monuments & Archaeological Sites and Remains Act of 1958.
In a statement, forum president Premanand Diukar highlighted that the ongoing construction was violating multiple laws. “The area is clearly marked as an *ecologically sensitive zone. Moreover, development cannot take place within 100 meters of the fort, as per the protection measures outlined in the *Ancient Monuments Act,” he said.
The construction, allegedly advancing without a proper project information board as mandated by law, has caused widespread concern among villagers. Mr. Anthony D’souza, General Secretary of the forum, remarked, “It’s puzzling how such a project could proceed without the necessary clearances, especially in an area so close to one of Goa’s most significant historical sites. This construction is causing irreparable damage to the local ecology and undermining the heritage value of Aguada Fort.”
The forum has urged the Panchayat to take immediate action to halt the construction and enforce compliance with the law. They argue that if left unchecked, the project could not only disrupt the natural environment but also erode Goa’s rich historical legacy.
“The authorities must treat this issue with urgency,” said Mr. Agnelo Barreto, a forum advisor. “We can’t allow such irresponsible development to jeopardize our heritage and ecological balance for future generations.”
