Excavation near prohibited zone sparks protests in Old Goa

Activists in Old Goa are raising concerns over illegal digging activities near a protected archaeological site. They claim that the discovery of cannonballs and other items proves the area is significant and should not be disturbed. Peter Viegas, a member of the Save Old Goa Action Committee, stated that the digging is illegal because it is happening within 100 meters of a prohibited zone. He presented an old map showing various historical buildings in the area to support his argument. Viegas criticized the tourism department for saying that permissions for the dig were granted. He emphasized that the church does not have the authority to issue these permissions. The activists also demanded that any removed heritage materials be returned and that the site be restored. Avertino Miranda from the Goa Green Brigade warned that the ongoing excavation is causing severe damage to the site’s history and environment. Additionally, the Old Goa panchayat has requested more information from the tourism department regarding the digging operations.