Goa plans no-construction buffer zones around religious places

A no-construction buffer zone will be created around places with religious significance to preserve their sanctity and architectural heritage, Goa Town and Country Planning Minister Vijai Sardesai said Friday.

Sardesai was talking to reporters after inspecting a mega complex near the world renowned Pillar Seminary, 10 kilometres from here.

"The TCP (Town and Country Planning department) will ensure there would be no-construction buffer zones around religious places. This is important considering the local sensibilities, religious sentiments and also architectural heritage," Sardesai said.

He said inputs and suggestions from local residents will be taken while embarking on this plan.

"We need to work by respecting local sentiments. We need planned development. Precaution would also be taken to ensure new constructions do not overload the village infrastructure," he said.