Goa Govt’s Sinquerim Hill Project Faces Fierce Opposition
Calangute: Residents of Candolim have strongly opposed the Goa government’s decision to allow commercial development of Sinquerim Hill, a move they claim will cause large-scale environmental damage. The Calangute Constituency Forum (CCF) and concerned citizens from surrounding areas have joined forces to resist the project, which they say threatens the region’s ecological balance.
At a recent public awareness meeting, the CCF disclosed details of a supplementary lease agreement granting Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) permission to develop a five-star project on 3,00,000 sq mtr of land in Candolim. The lease, valued at ₹62.25 crore, has a tenure of 50 years, with an option for a 24-year renewal.
Villagers argue that the project will disrupt biodiversity and damage Sinquerim Hill’s natural habitat. Instead, they propose the creation of a world-class botanical garden that would serve as an eco-friendly tourist attraction while preserving the hill’s historical and natural significance.
The residents have urged the government to prioritize environmental protection and community welfare over commercial interests. They have vowed to intensify their “Save Sinquerim Hill for the Next Generation” movement, seeking support from the people of Calangute constituency and the broader Goan community.
