India¡¯s First Sand Dune Park To Come Up In Goa With The Support Of World Bank

In a move that could further open up new avenues for tourism in Goa, the beach state is all set to have India¡¯s first sand dune park.

The World Bank accepted the proposal of the Biodiversity Board of the state and has sanctioned a sum of Rs 3 crore for the project.

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Sand dunes are geological deposits formed by the action of wind.

These geomorphic features act as nature¡¯s first line of defense from the forces of the ocean.

The long stretches of sand dune ecosystem along the state's coastal line have been largely neglected by both local officials and tourists, often turning them into garbage dumps.

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However, under the new initiative, this ecosystem will be revived and thematic and interpretation centres will educate locals and tourists on the importance of preserving the sand dunes.

As part of the efforts, bridges will be constructed using eco-friendly materials to reduce the chances of the sand dune vegetation being walked over.

The plan also includes the setting up of nurseries of sand dune vegetation, which will allow its replantation on beach stretches, where the vegetation has completely eroded. Morjim and Galibaga beaches are among the ones that'll get this sand dune feature.

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Last week, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) had directed Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA), Public Works Department (PWD) and other authorities concerned to take immediate remedial measures for the restoration and regeneration of sand dune ecosystem and riverside areas of Cavelossim village in Salcete.

NGT, Principal Bench - New Delhi has also said that the remedial measures be taken up within three months.

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The order was passed in an application filed by Cavelossim village forum against the Village Panchayat over the destruction of sand dunes and illegal construction activities in violation of CRZ regulations.