Goa Imposes Fines Up to ₹1 Crore for Illegal Hill Cutting

In a major move aimed at protecting Goa's fragile ecology, the state government has decided to impose fines of up to ₹1 crore on individuals and entities involved in illegal hill cutting . The decision was taken by the Goa Town and Country Planning (TCP) Board during a meeting chaired by TCP Minister Vishwajit Rane .

Addressing reporters after the meeting, Rane said violators would face escalating penalties, with a ₹50 lakh fine for the first offence , ₹75 lakh for the second , and ₹1 crore for the third violation . He added that legal action under the TCP Act would be initiated from the very first offence, alongside the financial penalties.

The minister said departmental flying squads are already conducting inspections and taking action against violations. Citizens have also been urged to report instances of illegal hill cutting to authorities.

Rane said the government is committed to taking strict measures against activities that damage the state's environment. He noted that the department has been regularly notifying large tracts of land as "No Development Zones" in ecologically sensitive areas to strengthen conservation efforts.

The decision comes amid growing concerns over the impact of rapid construction and land alteration on Goa's hills, forests, and natural drainage systems. Environmental groups have long warned that unchecked hill cutting can increase erosion, heighten flood risks, and threaten biodiversity.

The government's latest move reflects Goa's broader attempt to curb environmentally harmful development practices. It also highlights the continuing challenge of balancing infrastructure growth and real estate expansion with the need to preserve the coastal state's unique natural landscape. As development pressures intensify, the debate between economic growth and environmental conservation remains a defining issue for Goa's future.