Goa’s Reis Magos Village Panchayat issued a strong directive demanding an immediate stop to all works in the River Mandovi biodiversity zone along the Verem–Reis Magos stretch.
Biodiversity and Livelihoods at Stake
The panchayat opposes anchoring and replacement of new casino vessels, citing severe harm to local ecology and fishermen’s livelihoods. Activities disrupt marine habitats critical for fish stocks and traditional fishing practices.
Gram Sabha Backs the Call
Aligned with Gram Sabha resolutions, the demand urges authorities to keep the river stretch vessel-free. This escalates ongoing anti-casino activism amid licence extensions and larger ship approvals.
The move follows citizen protests and retired Justice Ferdino Rebello’s legal critiques of Mandovi casino expansions.

