Goa Launches ₹120.97 Crore Town Square Project in Porvorim

The Town Square in Porvorim is envisioned as a heritage-linked public space that also promotes economic growth. Spread across 11,000 sq. m, the project is designed as a year-round public programming platform.

In a significant move to reshape Goa’s tourism sector, Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte announced the Cabinet’s approval of several key tourism infrastructure projects, most notably the INR 120.97 crore Town Square initiative in Porvorim.

Alongside this flagship development, the beautification of Porvorim Creek and the establishment of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Museum at Farmagudi were also unveiled. These projects aim to enhance Goa’s cultural tourism offerings. The announcement was made in the presence of Kedar Naik, Director of Tourism; Kuldeep Arolkar, Managing Director of GTDC; and Gavin Dias, General Manager of GTDC.

The Porvorim Town Square is envisioned as a pioneering development in India—a heritage-linked public space that also fosters economic opportunities. Spread over 11,000 square meters, the site is planned as a year-round venue for public programming and events.

This space will become a vibrant hub for the community, supporting local artisans and creating employment and cultural engagement opportunities. It will include several distinctive features such as the Market Court, Welcome Court, Fountain Court, Movie Court, Heritage Court, an Ashoka Stambh, and a Clock Tower. The total project cost stands at INR 120.97 crore, with INR 90.74 crore being funded by the Central Government and INR 35.32 crore by the State Government. Completion is expected by March 2026.

Minister Khaunte emphasized that the Town Square will offer a platform for artists and cultural entrepreneurs while presenting a modern yet culturally-rooted public space. He noted that the project would not only revitalize the Porvorim area but also draw in tourists and encourage creative expression.

He also announced that the Town Square project has been approved under the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 scheme as part of the Rural Circuit, stretching from Porvorim to Harvalem. This initiative will enhance the creekside experience, including areas such as Torda Creek, Malim Jetty, Virlosa, and Pomburpa Spring, all the way to Harvalem. Within the spiritual circuit, the Gomant Sarita Poojan will be held in Narve, linking it to the Ekadasha Teertha initiative under Goa’s regenerative tourism framework.

In line with the coastal segment of the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 program, Colva is also set for redevelopment, featuring improved infrastructure and public spaces to elevate the visitor experience.

Addressing safety concerns, Khaunte clarified that there is no restriction on visiting waterfalls or other monsoon-driven tourist sites. He assured the public that adequate safety measures are being coordinated with the Forest Department and the Goa Forest Development Corporation to ensure secure and pleasant access.

The Minister also called for responsible communication regarding Goa’s tourism narrative, urging stakeholders to focus on the state’s progress. He highlighted a fresh initiative to promote “Monsoon Tourism,” encouraging year-round tourism and presenting a new image of Goa to travelers.

Altogether, the Central Ministry has sanctioned nearly INR 400 crore worth of tourism-related projects for Goa. Khaunte stressed the importance of encouraging tourists to look beyond Goa’s beaches and explore its rich culture, heritage, and interior regions. On addressing existing challenges in the industry, The Tourism Minister Rohan A. Khaunte stated, “The world knows about Goa and Goans—‘amka bhivpachi garaj na’. But yes, we need to make some corrections.”