Panaji: The Save Old Goa Action Committee (SOGAC) submitted a memorandum to the chief minister’s office on Monday, with 4,500 signatures in support, demanding the formulation of a comprehensive masterplan and the halting of various commercial projects at Old Goa.
The signature petition, launched on Sep 15, and the memorandum were presented to the CMO since chief minister Pramod Sawant is the chairman of the St Francis Xavier Exposition Committee.The activists also demanded an appointment with the CM to discuss their concerns.
“The heritage of Old Goa is at risk due to unchecked commercial development. We believe it is crucial to establish a Master Plan that prioritises preservation over profit,” said a spokesperson for SOGAC. The group argues that without such a plan, the unique character and historical significance of the area could be irrevocably lost.
SOGAC also accused Rajesh Naik, the TCP chief town planner, of failing to oversee project approvals. They alleged that many of the illegalities plaguing the region have occurred during his tenure.