Architects fret over gaffes, lack of clarity in regulations for Old Goa heritage monuments

MARGAO: The recent notification from the Town and Country Planning (TCP) Department regarding the need for a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for any development within 200 meters of the 14 ancient monuments and archaeological sites at Old Goa has raised concerns among activists and experts. They are worried about the lack of clarity and consistency in the notification, fearing potential violations and damage to these heritage sites.

One of the main concerns raised is the absence of a designated 200-meter buffer zone for state monuments, which are also crucial for protection. There are seven state monuments in Old Goa that lack specified buffer zones in the recent notification. Activists like Glen Cabral from Old Goa emphasise the necessity of clear demarcation on the Outline Development Plans (ODPs), using different colours to indicate prohibited areas, regulated zones, and protected sites.

“Two concerns must be urgently addressed,” added Urban Planner and architect Tahir Noronha.

“The first is the omission of seven state monuments protected by the Goa Department of Archaeology within the Se-Old Goa Panchayat. The notified map only includes boundaries and zones related to Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) protected monuments. This oversight demands immediate correction to incorporate State monuments and their regulated areas,” said Noronha.

“The second is a major cartographical error in the map: the lack of proper colour demarcation of protected, prohibited, and regulated areas under the AMASR Act. Linear marking as shown in the notified map is insufficient, as underneath the lines one still observes the various colours of settlement and orchard zones. This conflicting information can lead to unauthorised constructions,” Noronha added.

Noronha recommended following the national planning convention, where areas regulated by central government agencies are recoloured in white to enhance public compliance.

The recent notification specifies that the 14 monuments at Old Goa, including Basilica of Bom Jesus, Se’ Cathedral, Chapel of St Cajetan, Church and Convent of St Francis Assisi, Chapel of St Catherine, Church of Lady of Rosary, Church of St Augustine, Portal remains of St Paul’s College, Arch of Viceroy and others, are of national importance under the AMASR Act. The TCP has outlined protected, prohibited, and regulated areas related to these sites within the site plan.