PANJIM: Following a threat from locals and a group of MLAs, Captain of Ports has decided to shift the fifth casino in River Mandovi that was granted a licence by the government.
“We have decided to relocate the vessel at Ribandar, opposite the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary,” said Captain of Ports, James Braganza.
Earlier on Friday a group of legislators had threatened that the government would face a law and order situation if it failed to shift the new casino from its existing location near Britona.
Britona residents had also objected to the anchoring of MV Royal Flotel Deltin Caravela calling it illegal. Villagers under the banner of Britona Villagers Front had threatened an agitation if the government fails to remove the vessel from River Mandovi.
“Enough is enough. If this Flotel comes on the shores of Penha de Franca, we will join hands with like-minded people and taint-free citizens to ensure that all offshore casinos are thrown out of River Mandovi,” BVF President Agnel Pereira said on Friday, addressing the media.
The fifth offshore casino – having 12 bedrooms, two luxury rooms, restaurants and a casino – dropped anchor about two days ago. Pereira claimed that Captain of Ports has not granted its NOC, as the vessel was approved only mooring permission in 2013 and renewed till 2017.
“The floating hotel will have adverse effect not only on marine life but also on the ecology of the village. The government is not bothered about the welfare of the local citizens and especially the fisherfolk at Britona, who solely depend on fishing business for their living,” he added.
