Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte on Tuesday chaired a meeting with shop owners at Colva Beach to discuss the upcoming redevelopment works planned under the first phase of the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (Coastal Circuit) project.
Speaking to the media, Shri Khaunte emphasized that Colva remains one of South Goa’s most popular destinations for both domestic and international tourists, but many of its existing facilities are in poor condition and in urgent need of restructuring.
A comprehensive master plan has been prepared for Colva, focusing on modern amenities and upgraded infrastructure. To ensure minimal disruption during construction, the government will relocate existing shopkeepers to specially designed container spaces until the redevelopment is complete.
“The Government is committed to upgrading Colva with better infrastructure and facilities while safeguarding the interests of local stakeholders. The relocation is temporary, and once redevelopment is complete, shopkeepers will return to improved spaces that support both visitors and local businesses. These shopkeepers have spent half their lives here, and it is our duty to provide them with better amenities and an enhanced environment,” Shri Khaunte said.
The meeting was attended by Benaulim MLA Venzy Viegas, GTDC Managing Director Kuldeep Arolkar, Tourism Deputy Director Diksha Tari, Colva Panchayat representatives, and officials of the Department of Tourism.
The first phase of redevelopment will include an Arrival Avenue, a pedestrian bridge, a revamped shopping and food plaza, a tourist security block with CCTV surveillance, upgraded infrastructure, improved signage, street furniture, and other modern facilities.
The interaction underscored the government’s inclusive approach, directly involving local stakeholders in shaping the redevelopment of one of Goa’s most iconic tourist destinations.
