Daijiworld Media Network – Panaji

Panaji, Aug 3: The Save Old Goa Action Committee (SOGAC) has once again called for the urgent implementation of a Master Plan to protect Old Goa’s heritage monuments, including those under UNESCO. The committee warned of taking to the streets if their long-pending demand is not met.

Addressing the media at Azad Maidan on Saturday, SOGAC coordinator Peter Viegas criticised the government's inaction and said despite repeated appeals, authorities continue to allow projects in the heritage zone without a comprehensive development plan.

“Our demand for a Master Plan has been longstanding. But in the current Assembly session, the TCP Minister said the existing laws are sufficient to protect the monuments. However, projects like the heritage interpretation centre, Old Goa police station, and garbage treatment plant are being approved, showing the need for a dedicated Master Plan,” Viegas said.

He further pointed out discrepancies in the Regional Plan, stating that many areas surrounding protected monuments are wrongly marked as settlement zones rather than heritage zones. “This is alarming. These heritage pockets must be properly identified and preserved with expert assistance,” he added.

Viegas stressed that the committee will not back down this time. “If our demand is ignored again, we will take to the streets. Unlike before, this time we are committed to act,” he asserted.