The signatories to the appeal, representing concerned citizens under the banner of Citizens for Democracy Goa, have come forward with a pressing issue related to the protection of Old Goa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986. This appeal highlights the increasing threat posed by unregulated development, encroachments, and heritage violations that undermine the integrity of this culturally rich area.
Concerns and Threats to Old Goa:
Unregulated Development: Over the past two decades, there has been a disturbing rise in unregulated constructions, including illegal buildings, in and around Old Goa, a historical area known for its unique architecture, religious significance, and the legacy of Portuguese India. This has led to significant damage to its character and heritage value.
Pre-Portuguese Heritage: Old Goa's history extends beyond the colonial era, with rich pre-Portuguese heritage sites dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries. Yet, these areas are increasingly vulnerable to development, including large-scale construction projects, putting the historical landscape at risk.
Illegal Structures and Encroachments: Reports indicate that there are over 70 illegal structures within the World Heritage Site. Despite the presence of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and the Goa State Archaeology Department, these violations remain unaddressed, further exacerbating the erosion of Old Goa's heritage.
Tourism Pressure and Environmental Concerns: The high volume of tourists has placed immense pressure on the site, contributing to issues such as littering, unregulated vending, and the proposed installation of a garbage treatment plant in a sensitive area, all of which threaten Old Goa’s environmental and historical integrity.
Recommendations for Action: To protect Old Goa and preserve its legacy for future generations, several urgent measures are recommended:
A Holistic Protection Plan: The Goa State Government, in collaboration with the ASI, must formulate and enforce a comprehensive heritage protection policy. This should address not only the Portuguese heritage but also the pre-Portuguese sites, promoting sustainable tourism while protecting the area’s authenticity.
Strengthen Enforcement of Heritage Laws: A strict and immediate implementation of the Archaeological Survey of India’s regulations and the Goa Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act is needed. Authorities must take decisive action against illegal constructions and encroachments.
Comprehensive Heritage Master Plan: A heritage master plan should be created, identifying all protected zones and buffer areas to prevent further development that threatens Old Goa's visual and cultural integrity.
Relocation of the Garbage Treatment Plant: The proposed garbage treatment plant on the Kadamba plateau must be moved to a more environmentally suitable location, ensuring no harm to the heritage site or its surroundings.
Collaboration and Awareness: There is a need for stronger collaboration between all stakeholders, including the state government, local communities, heritage experts, and UNESCO, to raise awareness and ensure the sustainable management of Old Goa.
The citizens of Goa, including heritage enthusiasts and experts, call on the Ministry of Culture to take immediate action to safeguard Old Goa’s cultural and historical legacy. By enforcing existing heritage protection laws, ensuring the preservation of both Portuguese and pre-Portuguese sites, and fostering sustainable tourism practices, we can protect this invaluable World Heritage Site from irreversible damage.
At this critical juncture, the intervention of the Ministry of Culture and the Government of India is vital to halt the further erosion of Old Goa’s heritage. We are prepared to offer our support and provide further details to address this urgent issue.