Following sustained pressure from the Save Old Goa Action Committee, activists, and local citizens, ruling MLA Rodolfo Fernandes has formally demanded a comprehensive Master Plan to protect the Old Goa World Heritage Sites. Fernandes stressed that this plan must emerge through broad consultation with all stakeholders to ensure it reflects a transparent and consensus-driven approach to safeguarding heritage.
In addition, Fernandes called for urgent improvements to public amenities around the heritage precinct, including an ambulance, a crane for emergencies, and better drainage infrastructure to support both residents and tourists.
The controversy over illegal constructions continues to dominate discussions. Opposition members have once again demanded the demolition of an illegally built bungalow within Old Goa’s protected zone. Despite the revocation of permissions and public outrage, the structure remains standing, highlighting enforcement gaps and governance challenges.
Responding to the matter in the legislative assembly, the Chief Minister noted that the issue is sub judice, as it is pending in court, which currently limits the scope of government intervention. However, this explanation has done little to satisfy growing calls for decisive action and stricter protection of Old Goa’s globally recognised heritage.
Opposition leaders, including Yuri Alemao, criticised the absence of a cohesive Master Plan, pointing to reports of over 50 illegal structures within heritage zones and alleged attempts to bypass the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act (AMASR), 1958. The wider legislative debate now centres on not only preserving Old Goa’s cultural legacy but also on introducing robust measures, such as clear buffer zones and stricter development controls—to prevent further encroachment and strengthen heritage conservation for the future.