Goa's tourism minister addresses Old Goa project concerns

In a recent assembly session, Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte responded to criticism over a project near the Old Goa heritage site. He assured that the ongoing works are only for building permanent amenities for pilgrims and have church consent. Khaunte mentioned that the local police are investigating rumors about a proposed mall causing public concern. He confirmed that all construction has been paused according to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), and no further work will be done without ASI approval and consultation with church officials. The planned amenities include a parking lot, an interpretation center, and improved lighting. The project will be financed under the central government's Prasad Scheme, so the state will not incur costs. Khaunte emphasized that the facilities, which were temporary during a recent exposition, will be made permanent based on church agreements. He noted that multiple meetings with church authorities have taken place, and necessary permissions have been obtained from relevant departments. Khaunte dismissed claims from protesters regarding a mall, clarifying that construction is outside the heritage site's buffer zone. Concerns were raised by opposition members about the accuracy of the information regarding the project's location. Some argue that large trees were cut down without permission and questioned the validity of approvals from the Town and Country Planning (TCP) department. Khaunte urged everyone to refrain from politicizing the issue on religious grounds and assured ongoing dialogue with the church.