MARGAO, April 8 -- KARSTEN MIRANDA

Farmers from Loutolim and Borim villages have approached the High Court of Bombay at Goa, contesting the construction of the new Borim Bridge project through their traditional khazan fields. The action escalates their year-long legal battle following attempts to secure relief through the National Green Tribunal.

The petitioners, predominantly from tribal and indigenous communities, are challenging land acquisition notifications issued under the National Highways Act on October 19, 2023, and October 11, 2024. At stake is the protection of over 157,000 square metres of ecologically sensitive khazan lands.

The economic impact on local communities could be devastating. The Carbot, Cantor, Macasana & Bebdo...