Team Goemkarponn
Panaji: In a strong administrative move to curb illegal encroachments on government and communidade land, the Office of the Collector, North Goa District, has constituted taluka-wise Flying Squads with immediate effect to ensure round-the-clock enforcement across the district.
The order, issued by North Goa Collector Ankit Yadav, IAS, follows directions of the Revenue Department reiterating zero tolerance towards fresh encroachments and illegal constructions on public land. The decision aims to plug enforcement gaps and improve coordination among multiple departments responsible for land protection.
The Collector’s order makes it clear that no fresh encroachments will be permitted on government or communidade land and that immediate and effective action must be taken against any violations. It also clarifies that the benefits of the Majhe Ghar Yojana apply only to eligible landless persons who constructed dwelling houses prior to February 28, 2014, and that the scheme does not protect any new or illegal encroachments.
Each Flying Squad will function under the chairmanship of the Deputy Collector or Sub-Divisional Magistrate of the respective taluka and will include representatives from the Communidade Administration, Mamlatdar’s office, Block Development Office, Municipal or Panchayat administration, Town and Country Planning Department, Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (where applicable), and the local Police Inspector or PSI.
As per the Standard Operating Instructions, the Flying Squads will remain operational at all times, including weekends and public holidays, and will maintain strict surveillance over government and communidade land. Any instances of fresh encroachment or illegal construction are to be dealt with immediately and stopped forthwith.
To strengthen public participation, a dedicated WhatsApp number will be set up for receiving complaints related to encroachments, which will be given wide publicity. All complaints must be acted upon without delay, and the squads are required to conduct regular inspections and surprise visits, submitting monthly action-taken reports to the Collector.
The order further warns that any failure or negligence by officials in preventing encroachments will be viewed seriously and disciplinary action will be initiated as per rules in force.
The directive has come into force with immediate effect, signalling a tougher and more coordinated approach by the district administration to protect public land in North Goa.
