GTDC seeks deferment of Ghat Aarti project proposal in Bicholim
The Goa Tourism Development Corporation requested a delay for its riverfront construction project following local protests and environmental inspections.
The Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) has requested to postpone a proposal submitted to the Goa Coastal Zone Management Authority (GCZMA) for the Ghat Aarti project at Naroa in Bicholim, according to The Times of India.
The project, located on the banks of the Mandovi River, was intended to include a puja mandap, aarti deck, a ferry ramp, and a tourist information centre. The estimated cost for the spiritual tourism initiative was Rs 10 crore.
Residents from Naroa, Divar, Akhada, and Vanxim villages have protested against the project, stating they fear it would threaten the protection of the centuries-old sacred site. Cumbharjua MLA Rajesh Faldessai also joined the protesters.
An expert team from the GCZMA previously examined the location and told the GTDC that building activities must not enter the water. The authority also noted that part of the 16,000sqm area fell within a mangrove buffer zone.
While the GTDC had submitted revised plans to address these environmental concerns, the corporation chose to seek a deferment during last month's GCZMA hearing instead of securing the no-objection certificate.