The Mormugao Port Authority (MPA) has withdrawn its proposal to lease approximately one kilometre of Baina Beach for water sports activities for 30 years, following strong opposition from political leaders and fishermen.
The withdrawal takes immediate effect, as stated in a corrigendum issued on October 16, 2026
The MPA had invited expressions of interest to lease the stretch of beach through an e-tender-cum-e-auction process. The proposal triggered strong opposition from South Goa MP Captain Viriato Fernandes and fishermen’s leader Olencio Simoes.
Opposing the proposed lease, Captain Viriato Fernandes had said that the Congress would not allow the privatisation of Goa’s beaches and would resist any move that threatened public access to the coastline.
Fishermen’s leader Olencio Simoes had also warned of a massive agitation if the proposal went ahead. He said fishermen from across Goa would march to the MPA and stop port operations in protest.
The proposed 30-year lease had raised concerns over public access to Baina Beach and its implications for traditional fishing communities.
