The Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) on Tuesday directed the deputy collectors of Mapusa, Pernem, Margao, Canacona and Mormugao to submit a detailed status report pertaining to the demolition of shacks, huts and cottages along the coastal belt that were in violation of Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) notification. Member secretary of the GCZMA, Srinet Kothwale, in a letter to the deputy collectors, directed them to submit details pertaining to the total number of CRZ violators along with details of shacks, huts, cottages and temporary seasonal structures demolished till date by authorities. Details of shacks, huts, cottages and temporary seasonal structures not demolished, along with information of the scheduled date for demolition of the same were also sought. The letter stated that the National Green Tribunal (NGT), on September 19, had inter alia directed GCZMA to complete the demolition drive against illegal structures within 15 days. As per the NGT’s direction, GCZMA had written to the deputy collectors concerned to execute the order. On October 27, the NGT, while directing that no permission be granted to those shacks not demolished, asked the state to file a compliance report within two weeks. Kothwale said that based on the tribunal’s direction, the deputy collectors were issued instructions to undertake necessary action. On November 16, the environment secretary held a meeting with various departments pertaining to the demolition drive and issued necessary directions.
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