Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: A group of Panaji residents, civic representatives and experts has opposed the proposed change in the zoning of Panjim Park, popularly known as the old Quarterdeck, from recreational use to a Special Commercial Zone (SPZ), warning that the move could set a dangerous precedent for public spaces across Goa.
Panaji Councillor Jack Sukhija, along with city author Chryselle Dias, historian Prajal Sakhardande, residents Aslam Punjabi, Herton Fernandes and Aruvi, submitted representations to the North Goa Planning and Development Authority (NGPDA) and the Town and Country Planning (TCP) Department, seeking restoration of the property to its original recreational zoning.
The group said the proposed change could eventually restrict public access to one of Panaji’s historic riverfront spaces and encourage the conversion of other public parks and open areas for commercial purposes.
Sukhija said Panjim Park had functioned as a public recreational space since the 1980s, despite limited commercial activity and events being held on part of the property.
He expressed concern that changing the land-use classification to a Special Commercial Zone could eventually result in the public being denied access to the area.
The park, spread across approximately 5,845 square metres along the Mandovi River, has historically served as an open public space, the group said.
Local resident Chryselle Dias said citizens had come together to oppose the proposed zoning change and had submitted a representation supported by signatures collected during their campaign.
“This is a very serious issue and the people of Panaji want public access to this space,” she said.
Historian Prajal Sakhardande said Panaji’s riverfront and open spaces were an important part of the city’s identity and should remain accessible to the public.
The representations also raised objections to the proposed zoning under the Draft ODP 2031, with the citizens urging the authorities not to finalise the property as an SPZ.
Architect Ritu Prasad said the demand was to retain the property for recreational use rather than allow its conversion into a Special Commercial Zone.
The group has urged the NGPDA and TCP Department to revert the proposed land-use change and retain Panjim Park’s recreational zoning to ensure continued public access to the riverfront space.
