ANJUNA RETAINING WALL LEGAL, UNDERTAKEN BY WRD, SAYS LOBO

ANJUNA: Calangute MLA Michael Lobo has defended construction work on his property in Anjuna after locals halted the development, alleging it was part of a large-scale commercial project near the beach.The retaining wall construction sparked tension on Monday, with youth claiming it was a precursor to a restaurant or mall. Police intervened, verified permits, and allowed work to resume.Lobo dismissed the allegations, saying opposition to the project was politically motivated. “This is a legitimate development, and those opposing it are creating unnecessary trouble,” he stated.Residents, however, expressed fears of environmental damage, criticizing the Water Resources Department (WRD) and other authorities for supporting what they call a “destructive act.” Youth groups have called for accountability to protect Anjuna’s fragile coastal ecosystem.Caisua Village Panchayat has issued a stop-work notice under Section 64(1) of the Goa Panchayat Raj Act, 1994, ordering an immediate halt to an allegedly illegal anti-sea protection wall being constructed at Survey No. 41/3 in Vagator–Anjuna.The Panchayat’s action came in response to a complaint filed on October 21, 2025, by local resident Maxi D’Souza and several villagers, who objected to the construction. The complainants alleged that the structure violates the No Development Zone (NDZ) restrictions and encroaches upon a protected heritage landscape.The Panchayat has warned that non-compliance with the notice will invite strict legal proceedings under the provisions of the law. The official order was issued on October 22, 2025, under the seal and authority of the Anjuna–Caisua Panchayat.