Bombay High Court Directs Pernem Authorities to Investigate Illegal Hill Cutting at Tuem
The Bombay High Court has issued a significant directive, ordering a thorough inquiry into allegations of illegal hill cutting at Tuem in Pernem, Goa. On Tuesday, the division bench of the court mandated the deputy collector of Pernem, the police inspector of Mandrem police station, the Mamlatdar of Pernem, and the deputy town planner of Pernem to investigate the complaint promptly.
Court Demands Immediate Action and Detailed Report
The high court has set a strict deadline, requiring the authorities to present the correct position of the site and inform the court about any permissions granted for hill cutting by Wednesday. This urgent directive underscores the court's concern over potential environmental violations and the need for swift regulatory action.
The case was brought to light through a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Anant Mahadev Naik, who is represented by advocate Gaurish Agni. The PIL seeks urgent intervention against hill cutting activities at survey number 37/38 in Tuem, highlighting severe risks to the environment, public safety during monsoons, and ecological sustainability.
Petitioner's Allegations of Inaction by Authorities
In his petition, Naik detailed that despite repeated written complaints and representations made to various authorities—including police, revenue officials, the sub registrar, and the village panchayat—supported by land records and official inspection reports, no effective action has been taken to date. He emphasized that these statutory bodies, such as the town and country planning authorities, forest department, state pollution control board, and revenue authorities, are legally obligated to regulate land development and protect environmental resources.
The PIL argues that the hill cutting poses a direct threat to public safety, especially with the monsoon season approaching, and could lead to ecological degradation if left unchecked. The court's intervention aims to ensure compliance with environmental laws and prevent further damage to the region's natural landscape.
This case highlights ongoing challenges in enforcing environmental regulations in Goa and the critical role of judicial oversight in safeguarding public interests. The outcome of the inquiry could set a precedent for future cases involving illegal land development and environmental protection in the state.
