VASCO: The Mormugao Port Authority (MPA) began fencing the disputed land at Sada, Mormugao, on Wednesday under heavy police security, following directions from the Bombay High Court.
The land is where the shed popularly known as ‘Murgao Cha Raja’ was earlier demolished. A large police force was deployed to ensure that the fencing operation proceeded peacefully and without obstruction.
South Goa Collector Egna Cleetus, Deputy Collector Prataprao Gaunkar, Mamlatdar Pravinjay Pandit, senior police officers and MPA officials were present during the operation.
In its November 3 order in Contempt Petition No. 21/2026, the High Court directed authorities to provide adequate police protection to the MPA to complete fencing of the disputed property at Chalta No. 1, P.T. Sheet No. 7, Vasco.
The Court observed that although the shed had been demolished, the land still needed to be secured to prevent further encroachment. It also took note of an alleged assault on MPA officials during an earlier attempt to secure the property on October 7.
Meanwhile, the Mormugao Sub-Divisional Magistrate imposed prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the BNSS, effective until 11.59 pm on November 5, to prevent gatherings and maintain law and order in the area.
The High Court has directed the South Goa Collector and Superintendent of Police to personally supervise the security arrangements and ensure completion of the work.
The fencing operation is expected to take up to two days. Authorities have also been instructed to submit a compliance report before the Court.
The matter is scheduled for further hearing on November 5 at 2.30 pm.
