PANAJI: The sub-divisional magistrate (SDM) has served a stop work notice to a Panaji-based builder , who had reclaimed a 40m-stretch along St Inez creek at Tonca to widen an existing narrow road, reducing the creek’s width by almost half.The allegedly illegal embankment is sought to be fortified with a concrete wall in the creek, while the road serves as a link to the builder’s multi-dwelling housing project near the creek.Deputy collector, Vivek H P, IAS, in his capacity as sub-divisional magistrate, issued the order under Section 133 of CrPC, directing the builder to stop “the hazardous excavation and construction with immediate effect”.Further, the builder has been directed not to restart the work and to show cause as to why he should not restore the creek to its original condition.Taleigao comunidade and the village farmers’ club has complained to the authorities regarding the illegal reclamation.A project officer of the builder has stated that Taleigao panchayat has issued permission for the work. The retaining wall in the creek is under construction.The builder has been directed to appear in the SDM’s court on April 5 to show cause why the order should not be enforced.The creek’s width has shrunk in several places due to indiscriminate reclamation along some stretches. Though the water body, widened during the Portuguese era, experiences tidal influence, its flow has been blocked strategically to show it as a nullah, citizens say.Activists and villagers from Taleigao have raised concern over the work, as heavy flooding was witnessed in some stretches of the creek. “The government should play a proactive role in rejuvenating the creek, which has been neglected for many years,” said attorney, Taleigao comunidade, Xavier Almeida.

Stay updated with all the Latest Goa headlines here. For more exclusive & live news updates from all around India, stay connected with NYOOOZ.