PANAJI, November 5: An environmental group, Goa Foundation is fighting a losing battle to save the beaches of Goa. Illegal buildings, hotel projects and other real estate activities, which are threatening the coastal belt was recently highlighted in petition before the Goa Bench of the Mumbai High Court.

In a writ petition filed against a hotel project, Parasio de Praia belonging to Asiatic Estate Development Pvt Ltd, a resident of Calangute and the Goa Foundation have raised questions like inadequate approach road, no parking facilities, no maintenance of proper infrastructure, lack of proper sewerage treatment facilities and arrangements for collection and disposal of garbage.

Under the impact of these real estate developments, which are often illegal, the prime beach belt and a main tourist spot has turned into a coastal concrete jungle. And those violating the rules often have tacit official backing. The officials are alleged to be allowing illegal constructions by imposing nominal fines. The report of the Goa Environmental Committee had focussed attention on constructions in the state in violation of established regulations.

Copyright © 1997 Indian Express Newspapers (Bombay) Ltd.