After spending 17 crore to transform Colva beach, Swadesh Darshan 2.0 eyes upgrade to 'Iconic' tag

Colva: Tourism minister Rohan Khaunte proposed the implementation of Swadesh Darshan 2.0 during his visit to Colva beach on Friday. This comes after a previous investment of Rs 17 crore aimed at transforming the beach into an ‘iconic’ tourist destination.

The foundation stone for this transformation was laid on July 10, 2018, by former tourism minister Manohar ‘Babu’ Azgaonkar, along with local ex-MLA Churchill Alemao. Since then, the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) has utilised the funds, sanctioned by both central and state govts, for various infrastructure improvements. These included road beautification, enhancing existing islands, constructing pathways, drainage systems, toilet blocks with showers and changing rooms, and parking facilities for 80 four-wheelers and 327 two-wheelers, along with provisions for 54 bus-parking spaces. The project also featured a children’s play area with equipment, landscaping, and improved lighting for the beach.

While calling Colva one of Goa’s most iconic beaches, Khaunte acknowledged the ongoing challenges. He outlined plans to address key issues such as the creek’s condition, the development of a shopping annex along the creek, connecting local shops and restaurants to the sewage treatment plant, and ensuring better accessibility for the physically challenged.

Khaunte emphasised the importance of balancing tourism development with the needs of local businesses. Colva beach was originally taken under the Union ministry of tourism’s ‘Iconic Tourist Sites Development Project’ in 2018, aimed at boosting tourism infrastructure in the region. Despite the substantial investment to date, this new initiative under Swadesh Darshan 2.0 signals further efforts to elevate Colva beach’s status as a premier tourist destination.