Goa Removes Old Settlements From No Development Zones

Goa has changed its rules for some old settlements.

These settlements will no longer automatically be called No Development Zones.

This may help people who own property in traditional villages.

The decision was made by Goa’s Town and Country Planning Board.

Minister Vishwajit Rane said the change does not mean nature protections will be removed.

Forests, wetlands, fields, mangroves and other sensitive places will remain protected.

Goa is still debating how land should be used and how the environment should be protected.

The planning department will continue preparing zoning and development plans.