Goa Government Sets Casino Relocation Deadline

The Goa government has announced that off-shore casinos in the Mandovi river must relocate by March 2027. Chief Minister Pramod Sawant confirmed this is the final extension. Casinos have been a significant tourist draw, but relocation is mandatory under current licenses, requiring them to operate beyond five nautical miles from the seafront.

The Goa government has declared that off-shore casinos currently stationed at the Mandovi river are mandated to relocate by March 2027. This decision was conveyed by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant following a cabinet meeting, marking the last extension for these floating venues known for their social amusements.

For years, these casinos have been a notable attraction for tourists, with the state government renewing their operational extensions every six months. Sawant clarified that this final deadline means no further extensions will be granted for them to remain at Mandovi.

Under existing licenses, Goa's five off-shore casinos in the Mandovi river must move because they are required to operate beyond a specific distance, notably five nautical miles from the seashore. This relocation mandate has been a focal point for successive Goa governments.