A major explosion at the Amona 220kV substation early Friday plunged several areas of Sanquelim and Valpoi into a grueling 12-hour blackout.  Triggered by a fierce mix of lightning, heavy pre-monsoon winds, and rain, a vital transformer caught fire and suffered extensive damage.  The blast wrecked critical infrastructure, destroying bus bars and insulators. Fire services safely contained the blaze, while nearly 90 electricity department personnel worked urgently to restore...

The Goa government has officially notified 4 lakh square metres of ecologically sensitive land around Old Goa and St Cruz village as "no development zones."  The Town and Country Planning (TCP) Board enacted the ban to preserve a major UNESCO World Heritage site and a vital mangrove patch. Out of this, 102,000 square metres strictly surround Old Goa’s protected heritage precinct, including local orchards and an archaeological park.  The decisive eco-move completely bans any...

Panaji: The long-standing battle over the Mhadei River has intensified as the controversy over water diversion reaches a critical boiling point. The dispute centers on the proposed diversion of water to the Malaprabha basin, a move Goa staunchly opposes to protect its fragile ecology and water security. Recent developments have sparked fresh protests, with environmentalists and local leaders warning of irreversible damage to the Western Ghats. While neighboring states push for...

Panaji: Goa has officially cemented its status as the primary hub for India’s expanded Digital Nomad Visa program. In a strategic collaboration with the Central Government, the state has launched five dedicated co-working spaces situated directly on the shores of Morjim and Benaulim. Current data for mid-May reveals a 25% surge in long-term stays by international tech professionals. While this influx is driving significant economic growth, it has also ignited a local debate regarding...

Panaji: A transformative milestone is approaching for Goa’s tourism landscape. Final inspections are currently underway for the iconic Viewing Gallery and Observatory atop the New Zuari Bridge.Inspired by global landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, these twin structures offer a breathtaking 360-degree vista of the Arabian Sea and the lush Goan hinterlands. Set for a grand inauguration next month, the project signals a strategic shift toward high-end architectural tourism. This modern...