Team Goemkarponn
BICHOLIM: In view of the upcoming annual Jatra of Shree Devi Lairai Temple at Shirgao, the Deputy Collector and Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Bicholim has issued an order under Section 152 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, to regulate public places and ensure safety during the event scheduled to commence on April 21, 2026.
The order, issued by Deputy Collector and SDM Shubham Naik on February 27, 2026, notes that a large congregation of devotees is expected in and around the temple premises, approach roads, and adjoining public areas. Considering past incidents and directions of the District Magistrate, North Goa, as well as observations by the Bombay High Court at Goa in Writ Petition No. 129 of 2026, preventive measures have been deemed necessary to avoid congestion, obstruction and safety hazards.
A Joint Task Force has been constituted to enforce safety norms and remove unauthorized structures during the Jatra. The Task Force comprises the Mamlatdar of Bicholim Taluka, Police Inspector of Bicholim Police Station, Station Fire Officer of Fire & Emergency Services (Bicholim), Executive Engineers of the Electricity Department and PWD (Roads and Buildings), and the Secretary of Village Panchayat Shirgao.
As per the order, no person shall erect stalls, sheds, temporary structures or any installation on roads, pathways or public places without prior written permission from the competent authority. Placement of materials, vehicles or equipment that obstruct roads, pedestrian passages or emergency routes is strictly prohibited.
All unauthorized stalls, structures or encroachments on public roads and places are to be removed immediately by the persons concerned, failing which the Joint Task Force will undertake removal in the interest of public safety. Parking will be strictly regulated as per police and traffic authorities’ directions, with no parking allowed on emergency access routes.
The order also mandates that all electrical, fire-related and structural installations in public places comply with prescribed safety norms, failing which they may be dismantled by the Task Force.
The Mamlatdar of Bicholim will function as the In-Charge Officer of the Task Force and coordinate inspections and enforcement. The Public Works Department has been directed to provide logistical support, including machinery and manpower, for clearing encroachments and ensuring safe access routes.
The order has come into force with immediate effect and will remain operative until the completion of the Jatra or until further orders. Violations will invite action in accordance with law.
