Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Goa Foundation has written to the Prime Minister of India, raising serious concerns about a series of projects proposed or underway inside Goa’s protected wildlife areas. The Foundation claims these activities violate wildlife protection laws and could cause irreversible damage to the state’s forests and biodiversity.
In its formal representation, the environmental group highlighted ongoing and proposed activities within three protected areas: Bhagwan Mahaveer National Park, Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary, and Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary. These areas form part of the Western Ghats, a globally recognised biodiversity hotspot.
Among the major concerns listed:
Ore Handling in Kalay: The Goa government is reportedly attempting to permit the loading and unloading of mineral ore from Karnataka within the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary. This activity had earlier been stayed by the High Court due to environmental concerns, but efforts are reportedly being made to push it through the State Board for Wildlife.
Tourism Project in Surla: A luxury tourism resort worth ₹8 crore is being planned inside the core zone of the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary, which has been proposed as a Tiger Reserve. The project includes plans to install electric fencing around the resort to keep wildlife out. The Foundation says this would violate sanctuary laws and endanger animal lives.
Resort Project in Collem: Another tourism venture is reportedly in the planning stages inside ecologically sensitive forest terrain in Collem, which falls under the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary.
Railway Double Tracking: Despite the Supreme Court cancelling a previous approval for the railway double tracking project through the Bhagwan Mahaveer National Park and Sanctuary, a new Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) has been prepared to revive the project. The Foundation alleges that the new EIA is being used to bypass court rulings and revive a project with proven ecological risks.
The Goa Foundation stated that these projects go against the National Wildlife Action Plan (2017–2031) of the National Board for Wildlife, which is chaired by the Prime Minister. The Foundation also referred to a High Court directive asking the Goa government to declare a Tiger Reserve in the state, based on recommendations from the National Tiger Conservation Authority.
Speaking on the issue, Goa Foundation Director Dr Claude Alvares said the government’s push for these projects reflects a serious disregard for national wildlife protection laws.
“We have requested the Prime Minister to call for all files related to these proposals and ensure that the Goa government complies with national policies on conservation. Protected forest areas should not be compromised for short-term commercial gains,” Dr Alvares said.
The letter serves as an urgent call for intervention at the highest level, seeking to ensure that Goa’s forests and wildlife are safeguarded from activities that may cause long-term damage to the environment.
