Goa's offshore casinos may be shifted to Aguada bay

Goa government is likely to shift the offshore casinos from Mandovi river to Aguada bay across the city of Panaji.

"Government is seriously considering relocating all the four offshore casinos to Aguada bay," state tourism minister Dilip Parulekar said.  The state government had in its recent decision shortlisted four locations to move offshore casino vessels from Mandovi river near Panaji, where they are currently stationed.

Parulekar said that the offshore casino vessels could not be moved to other places like Zuari, Chapora and Sal, which were shortlisted, due to severe constraints. The offshore casino owners had earlier agreed to shift the vessels to new location, if the state government provided them required infrastructure.

The minister said the government is mulling over the possibility of providing infrastructure required for operating the offshore casinos at Aguada bay. The offshore casinos being operated in Mandovi river has evoked strong reaction from various quarters. Social activists have been demanding to shift the vessels away from Panaji while highlighting ill-effects of casinos on the state's culture.

Also Read: Goa opposition takes on government over offshore casino issue