Portuguese Cannonballs Halt Goa Heritage Project

The discovery of Portuguese-era cannonballs at a heritage site in Old Goa has temporarily halted construction work under the PRASHAD scheme. The Archaeological Survey of India found the artifacts, leading to a pause for proper documentation. Locals protested, fearing a mall was being built nearby, which authorities denied.

A recent discovery of Portuguese-era cannonballs at a heritage site in Old Goa has prompted an immediate halt to some ongoing construction activities, officials reported.

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) officials found these artifacts near a church, where the central government's PRASHAD scheme was facilitating the development of visitor amenities. The ASI has required a pause in construction for thorough documentation of the findings through photography, drawings, and reports.

This unintended delay ignited local protests amid concerns over tree felling and excavation. State officials, however, clarified no mall is planned, emphasizing that development aims to enhance tourism while respecting the site's heritage. The work will resume upon the ASI's clearance.

(With inputs from agencies.)