The Goa government has shortlisted three potential locations for the permanent campus of Indian Institute of Technology Goa (IIT Goa), marking a key step in the institute’s long-pending infrastructure plans.
The identified sites include comunidade land at Usgao, the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) site at Keri in Ponda, and the old sugar factory land at Dharbandora. Authorities are expected to evaluate the feasibility, accessibility, and environmental impact of each location before taking a final decision.
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However, the proposal to set up the campus at the SEZ site in Keri has drawn opposition from the Keri Nagrik Kruti Samiti. The group has objected to the move, stating that the plateau area holds ecological and cultural significance for local residents.
According to the Samiti, the project could adversely affect the fragile environment and biodiversity of the region. They expressed concerns that villages such as Keri, Vagurme, Khandepar, Verem and Priol would be impacted if large-scale construction activity is undertaken in the area.
The Samiti has urged the government to preserve the land to protect its ecological balance and sacred value, insisting that development should not come at the cost of environmental sustainability.
