Indian Railways is pursuing an ambitious land acquisition plan, targeting nearly 6,000 hectares in South Goa’s villages of Cansaulim, Sancoale, and Issorcim to facilitate the double tracking of the Hospet-Vasco railway corridor. This strategic project is designed to expand the capacity of this important coastal rail line, enhancing freight and passenger movement while connecting Goa more seamlessly to the wider Indian rail network.
The process involves land from private owners and local communidades, provoking opposition from residents and environmentalists. Reports of unauthorized activities such as tree felling and material dumping before land transfers have intensified tensions. Local authorities have issued stop-work orders to protect community rights, and judicial interventions including public interest litigations have halted the project temporarily for closer examination.
Despite these hurdles, railway officials maintain that the double-tracking initiative is essential for alleviating traffic bottlenecks, supporting commerce, and advancing regional progress. The unfolding developments highlight the necessity for open dialogue and responsible engagement with affected communities as Indian Railways pushes forward with this major infrastructure endeavor in South Goa.