Goa plans green spaces in cities to tackle heat and pollution rise

The Goa government has unveiled an ambitious urban forestry mission aimed at embedding green infrastructure across its municipal landscapes.

The initiative, spearheaded jointly by the forest and urban development departments, seeks to introduce natural cooling solutions, support biodiversity, and enhance liveability through the creation of urban green lungs. Officials involved in the programme shared that this nature-based approach will directly address the urban heat island effect—an intensifying phenomenon in Goa’s expanding town centres. The project will prioritise the transformation of underutilised or degraded land into lush green spaces that improve air quality, reduce surface temperatures, and provide shaded, healthy environments for city dwellers.

Senior authorities from both departments confirmed that municipal councils and civic officers will be core stakeholders in the project’s planning and execution. The initiative is designed to be participatory, with local representatives encouraged to share site-specific ideas for implementing greening projects in their respective areas. The immediate focus will be on identifying viable plots across urban municipalities for pilot projects. Key among these is Sonsoddo, a chronically degraded area that has been earmarked for revival using the Miyawaki afforestation method. This Japanese technique involves planting dense native forest patches in small urban spaces, resulting in rapid green growth and improved microclimates.

Officials have indicated that vertical gardens and community green corridors will also be considered in high-density zones where horizontal space is limited. The project is expected to evolve into a citywide network of micro-forests and parks that offer climate-smart public spaces and natural buffers against pollution. In a recent high-level interdepartmental meeting, stakeholders, including councillors and technical experts, discussed the integration of sustainable practices such as composting of wet waste and rainwater harvesting to maintain the ecological balance of these new green zones. This integrated approach will allow Goa’s urban forestry project to align with broader sustainability goals, including waste minimisation, water conservation, and biodiversity enhancement.

A planning and design consultancy has been roped in to assist in developing site plans that balance ecological performance with community needs. The designs will emphasise native plant diversity, soil regeneration, and accessibility, ensuring that the green spaces cater to all demographics while improving overall urban health metrics. The urban forestry mission also reflects a shift in urban policy thinking—from infrastructure-led growth to climate-responsive development. By prioritising green cover, the state aims to mitigate the health impacts of extreme heat, which disproportionately affect vulnerable communities such as the elderly, low-income residents, and outdoor workers.

While Goa is typically known for its coastal tourism, its cities are not immune to the pressures of rapid urbanisation and changing climate. The increase in heat waves, irregular rainfall, and rising pollution levels has made it imperative for local governance to adapt with urgency. Officials noted that the mission is a proactive step towards making Goan cities more liveable and climate-resilient in the long term. The departments involved will monitor implementation jointly, with local bodies tasked with on-ground execution and upkeep. Transparency and citizen participation are expected to play a vital role in ensuring the longevity and success of the urban green patches.

Experts emphasised that the success of this initiative will depend not only on plantation targets but also on the long-term maintenance of the sites. Engagement with community-based organisations, environmental NGOs, and educational institutions is being considered to ensure that the benefits of these green spaces are sustained and widely shared. The move has already drawn praise from urban planners and environmentalists who see it as a template for other Indian cities grappling with rising heat stress and shrinking green cover. By creating decentralised ecosystems within the urban fabric, Goa’s initiative has the potential to balance its development needs with ecological restoration.

As cities across India scramble to adapt to climate realities, Goa’s urban forestry programme stands out as a hopeful model—rooted in local engagement, environmental stewardship, and a clear vision for sustainable urban futures.

Goa plans green spaces in cities to tackle heat and pollution rise