In a major step toward developing Goa’s first Film City, the Communidade of Loliem-Pollem in South Goa has signed a 99-year lease agreement with the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), clearing the way for the creation of a sprawling film and entertainment hub on 250 acres of the scenic Bhagwati plateau in Canacona.
As part of the deal, the Communidade has received Rs 1.70 crore — with Rs 1 crore paid as a deposit and Rs 70 lakh as the first year’s rent. The agreement was finalised in early July, following ESG’s response to a land procurement notice issued in 2023.
Speaking to O Heraldo, Vishwajit Varik, President of the Loliem-Pollem Communidade, said the project promises huge economic opportunities for the region. “This project will open new avenues for the youth and boost local employment. We have signed an agreement with ESG last week,” Varik confirmed.
The proposed Film City is set to feature modern infrastructure such as pre- and post-production studios, VFX and CGI labs, a dedicated film school, accommodation facilities for film crews, open-air shooting locations, and large venues for events. ESG Vice-Chairperson Delilah Lobo and Canacona MLA Ramesh Tawadkar have both endorsed the project, highlighting its potential to create over 5,000 direct jobs while also giving a strong push to tourism and related industries in the area.
Despite the enthusiasm, the project has drawn criticism from environmentalists and a section of local residents, who have raised concerns about developing the ecologically sensitive lateritic plateau. However, Varik dismissed the opposition as limited in scope, stating that it came from a single individual known for routinely opposing community initiatives.
“The lone dissenting voice, a habitual opponent with vested interests, was decisively overpowered by the collective wisdom of the community,” he said. “This historic resolution has set the stage for a brighter future. The Communidade of Loliem-Pollem is poised to become a model for community-driven development in Goa.”
In addition to the Film City, the Communidade has passed several other resolutions aimed at long-term growth and development. A proposal to create world-class ‘Wayside Amenities’ for tourists has been approved, with plans to hand over nearly 10,000 to 15,000 square metres of land near the highway to the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) to enhance tourist experiences and strengthen the local economy.
The Communidade has also allocated land for a range projects, including a Sainik School, a cricket stadium in partnership with the Goa Cricket Association, and a 100–150 MW solar power plant. Plans are also underway for a new office complex to serve the administrative needs of the Communidade of Loliem-Pollem.