The Tourism Fears Rise as Betul Port Threatens Mobor Coast issue has triggered intense concern across Goa’s luxury beach belt. Stakeholders in Mobor and Cavelossim believe the proposed Betul Port could reshape the region’s tourism landscape and endanger the pristine beach that draws thousands of European visitors each year. The Tourism Fears Rise as Betul Port Threatens Mobor Coast debate grows louder as hoteliers, shack owners, and water-sports operators worry about their future.
Mobor’s white sands and calm coastline sustain a major part of Salcete’s tourism economy. Locals fear that coal and mineral handling at the port could turn the coast black, push visitors away, and force families to leave Goa for alternative livelihoods. Cruz Cardozo from the Goan Shack Owners Society said the project threatens both tourism jobs and traditional occupations.
Cavelossim Sarpanch Dixon Vaz added that railway-line studies ordered by the Mormugao Port Authority signal major coal movement, which could hit the hospitality sector hard.
Biodiversity activists also warn of ecological loss. Roy Barretto of the Cavelossim Biodiversity Committee said the project sits dangerously close to a major fish-breeding zone at the River Sal mouth, placing species like Chonak, Rauss, and crabs at risk.
