Offshore casino in Goa causing traffic problems

An offshore casino operated by M/s Golden Globe Hotels Pvt Ltd has attracted the ire of local commuters, with complaints that the spillover of patrons in the evenings has been endangering pedestrians and commuters.

The new casino, Maharaja offshore casino, has been anchored at Captain of Ports (CoP) Panjim jetty for the last two months after winning a High Court battle allowing anchorage at the River Mandovi jetty.

It is understood that half of the jetty has been occupied by the casino operator for their ticketing counter, which attracts long lines in the evening.

Locals have complained that the spillover queues are a hazard to pedestrians and commuters, with the footpath no longer usable as a result of the crowds.

In response, Panaji Mayor Vithal Chopdekar has ordered an inspection of the site.

“That jetty belongs to CoP and it was constructed by Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation (GSIDC). Latest by Tuesday morning, the municipal engineer is asked to conduct the inspection and submit a report,” he said adding “necessary action will be followed thereafter”.

The mayor assured that the encroachment of public ways will not be tolerated.

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