Daijiworld Media Network – Panaji

Panaji, May 8: The Goa government has declared Vagheri Hill in North Goa and Sao Jorge Island in South Goa as “No Development Zones” in a move aimed at protecting ecologically sensitive and heritage-rich areas from construction activity.

Town and Country Planning Minister Vishwajit Rane said the decision was taken following concerns over environmental degradation and unregulated developmental activities in the two locations.

Vagheri Hill, located near the Goa-Maharashtra border in Sattari taluka, is among the highest points in the coastal state with an altitude of around 780 metres.

According to the minister, the state government issued an official notification after a committee constituted by the forest department found evidence of clearing of green cover for developmental purposes in the Western Ghats region.

Spread across approximately 65.31 lakh square metres within Querim village panchayat limits, the hill area contains significant natural vegetation and slopes overlapping with irrigation command zones.

The government has also notified Sao Jorge Island in Mormugao taluka, covering around 6.63 lakh square metres, as a “No Development Zone” considering its ecological sensitivity and heritage importance.

Officials said the move is intended to preserve the environmental balance and cultural significance of the island while preventing large-scale construction and land alteration activities.

The minister added that members of the public can submit objections or suggestions regarding the notifications to the State Chief Town Planner within 30 days from the date of issuance.