Home / Environment / NGT Dismisses Plea for Dune Restoration on Goa Beach
NGT Dismisses Plea for Dune Restoration on Goa Beach
4 Jun
Summary
- NGT dismissed plea to restore sand dunes damaged by illegal road.
- Dunes on Sernabatim beach found to have naturally restored over time.
- Tribunal upheld GCZMA report, finding no need for active restoration.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has dismissed a plea concerning sand dunes allegedly damaged by an illegal road construction on Sernabatim beach, Goa. The original case, dating back to 2014, sought the restoration of dunes and removal of structures.
Following a 2020 site inspection by the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) and the Goa State Biodiversity Board, it was reported that the damaged dunes had undergone natural restoration. Sand deposition and vegetation had significantly covered the affected area, with only a small section lacking natural cover.
Despite the appellant's continued push for active restoration, the NGT found the GCZMA's assessment more convincing. The tribunal concluded that the site had already restored naturally and that a subsequent joint committee report did not inspire confidence, leading to the dismissal of the appeal and upholding the GCZMA's earlier decision.
