Goa TCP Approves 2.8 Lakh Sqm Land Conversion: Sancoale's 1.8 Lakh Sqm Sparks Outrage
Goa's Town and Country Planning (TCP) Department has approved the conversion of 2.8 lakh square meters of land for settlement purposes throughout the state. This decision came from the TCP board's 222nd meeting on November 3, 2025, targeting areas like Bardez, Tiswadi, Mormugao, Ponda, and Salcete.
Key Approvals and Locations
These approvals cover various sites, but Sancoale in North Goa stands out due to its significant size. Zuari Industries Ltd aims to convert 1.8 lakh sqm of orchard and natural cover into settlement land. TCP officials note this is among the largest single additions recently approved.
Other important proposals involve:
- 39,481 sqm in Ella, Tiswadi, which overlaps with archaeological park and orchard zones and needs forest clearance.
- 47,280 sqm for Alcon Developers in Khandola, Ponda, located on orchard land with mangroves and slopes.
- The recent approval in Sancoale for Prestige Acres Pvt Ltd: 33,438 sqm, previously Zuari Agro Chemicals' land.
These changes come under Section 39A of the Goa TCP Act, 1974, which allows zone changes after a public notice is issued. Stakeholders have 30 days to lodge objections.
Fierce Opposition from the Goa Forward Party
The sharpest criticism is over Sancoale. Goa Forward Party chief Vijai Sardesai says the land was originally set aside by Goa’s first Chief Minister, Bhausaheb Bandodkar, to create jobs for locals, not for real estate growth. Calling the move a betrayal of that vision, he urged the government to drop the plan and protect Goa’s environment.
GFP worries that these piecemeal changes might undermine regional planning. The High Court is currently reviewing Section 39A, questioning its legitimacy as it poses risks to coherent development and is against Articles 14 and 21.
Broader Context and Recent Trends
The TCP has stepped up land approvals. Recently, in October, it finalised 94,542 sqm conversions in Sancoale, Arvalem, and Mandrem for settlement and other uses, though outcomes are pending from High Court PILs.
Minister Vishwajit Rane mentioned in July 2025 that prior approvals totalled 2.9 lakh sqm cumulatively. Now, new developments surpass that scale, igniting discussions on sustainable growth.
Implications for Real Estate and Buyers
These modifications might open up prime land for housing and commercial projects in North Goa, which is seeing high demand. However, legal challenges are possible, and court stays could impede progress. Buyers should keep an eye on the objections period and any ongoing PILs.
Advantages for developers: More settlement land means increased inventory amid rising tourism. Disadvantages: Environmental opposition could lead to delays and higher costs.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Land | 2.8 lakh sqm |
| Largest Plot | 1.8 lakh sqm, Sancoale |
| Opposition | GFP concerns over historical misuse |
| Legal Basis | Section 39A, following public notice |
As Goa seeks to balance development with preservation, these approvals will test the TCP's influence. Will the courts step in? Stay tuned for updates on this unfolding story.