Illegal Construction Near Mormugoa Municipal Council Building Sparks Outrage: Citizens Highlight Legal Violations and Public Safety Concerns

Illegal Construction Near Mormugoa Municipal Council Building Sparks Outrage: Citizens Highlight Legal Violations and Public Safety Concerns

Vasco da Gama, April 23, 2025 — A wave of public concern is sweeping through Vasco da Gama following the emergence of an alleged illegal structure near the Mormugoa Municipal Council Building, a location that lies in the core of the city’s busiest zone. The Concerned Citizens of Vasco Forum has submitted a formal complaint to the Deputy Collector of Mormugao, urging urgent and decisive action against the construction, which they allege is not only unauthorized but also dangerous.

Importantly, the forum clarified that their objection is not against any religion or belief system, but strictly against the location, height, and legality of the structure. “We respect all faiths, but no one should be above the law — especially when public safety and urban discipline are at stake,” the letter reads.

Violation of High Court and Supreme Court Orders

The forum cited a recent order by the Hon’ble High Court of Bombay at Goa, which prohibits any commercial or residential construction in urban and rural areas without mandatory setbacks. These setbacks are crucial for ensuring ventilation, fire safety, and smooth movement of people and vehicles. The ongoing construction near the Municipal Building allegedly violates these setback norms, as it is being built dangerously close to a busy thoroughfare and public infrastructure.

Further, the Supreme Court of India has laid down clear guidelines (notably in Union of India vs. State of Gujarat, 2009) that prohibit the installation of statues, religious structures, or any permanent structure on roads, footpaths, or public spaces. These guidelines were issued to protect public property and ensure unobstructed movement for pedestrians and vehicles.

“This structure clearly encroaches upon the spirit and letter of both these judicial directives,” the forum emphasized, calling it a direct affront to constitutional governance.

Obstruction, Safety Hazards, and Power Connection

Standing over 6 meters tall, the structure is already causing visibility obstruction to both motorists and pedestrians, especially during peak hours. The area, already congested, is one of Vasco’s most trafficked junctions. The citizens warned that the situation is a potential disaster in the making, especially in case of emergencies.

Adding to the concern is the fact that the Electricity Department has reportedly already provided a power connection, despite questions over the legality of the structure. “This appears to be a gross administrative failure, or worse, silent approval of illegality,” one resident remarked.

Rumors of Personal Interest and Public Distrust

The construction has quickly become a talking point across the town, with locals expressing fears that certain individuals may be misusing public land for personal or political gain. The forum said such actions, if left unchecked, would open the floodgates for further illegal developments, eroding both public safety and administrative credibility.

Citizens Demand Immediate Action

The letter to the Deputy Collector makes the following demands:

• Immediate suspension and investigation of the ongoing construction.
• Legal verification of approvals, if any.
• Strict action under the Goa Town and Country Planning Act, 1974.
• Enforcement of the High Court order on setbacks.
• Adherence to the Supreme Court’s ban on unauthorized religious or decorative structures on public roads and footpaths.
• Demolition of the structure, if found illegal, and punitive action against those responsible.

“We are simply asking the administration to uphold the law. Failure to act decisively now will set a dangerous precedent for Vasco and the rest of Goa,” the forum concluded.

All eyes are now on the Office of the Deputy Collector to act on this growing civic concern and reaffirm public trust in the rule of law.