Section 39A is a provision added in 2024 to the Goa TCP Act that allows the Chief Town Planner (with government approval) to change land-use zoning, including converting areas such as hills, orchards, forests or other “non-settlement” land into settlement zones where construction is allowed, after a short public notice period.

1. Threat to Environment and Ecology
Many residents and activists argue that 39A makes it easier to build on ecologically sensitive land — such as hills, orchards and areas important for groundwater recharge, natural drainage and biodiversity. They fear rapid construction will lead to:

1. loss of natural cover.
2. increased risk of flooding and landslides
3. depletion of groundwater
4. damage to coastal ecosystems and village landscapes