Mapusa, April 28, 2026:
A serious environmental and public safety issue has surfaced in Mapusa, with the group Together for Mapusa issuing a formal ultimatum to the North Goa District Collector and District Disaster Management Authority over alleged illegal activities at the Mapusa Market sub-yard.

According to the complaint, the natural drainage outfall behind the market has been completely blocked due to illegal filling, posing a high risk of flooding in the market area and surrounding residential zones, especially during the upcoming monsoon. The group has warned that the situation could lead to catastrophic flooding if not addressed immediately.

In addition, the complaint highlights that garbage containing plastic waste is being openly burnt at the site, leading to severe environmental pollution and health concerns.

Key Demands (Within 7 Days):

FIR to be registered against those responsible for garbage burning

Immediate Stop Work Order on all filling activities

Joint site inspection by Revenue, WRD, TCP, and Forest Departments

Drone survey to assess the extent of encroachment

Filing of complaint under the Environment Protection Act

Move the National Green Tribunal (NGT) for urgent intervention

Restoration Measures (Within 30 Days):

Removal of all illegal fill material

Restoration of a minimum 3-metre-wide drainage channel connecting to Mapusa River

Installation of protective structures to prevent re-encroachment

Independent hydrological survey to confirm water flow restoration

Long-Term Measures (Deadline: May 31, 2026):

Full restoration of drainage corridor to 2015 baseline condition

Official demarcation as a Protected Water Body & Natural Drainage Reserve

Mangrove replantation across 7 hectares in collaboration with Forest Department

Integration of the outfall into the ₹46.52 crore WRD Mapusa River improvement project

48-Hour Deadline Warning

The group has demanded public confirmation of a Stop Work Order within 48 hours, warning that failure to act will lead to escalation before judicial and environmental authorities.

The memorandum has been signed by Adv. Mahesh J. Rane (President) and Jitesh J. Kamat (General Secretary) and copies have been marked to GCZMA, WRD, TCP, Forest Department, and Goa State Pollution Control Board.

— Gaonkaari News Desk