It is learntthat the Goa government plans to set up a mega entertainment village spreadover 1.5 lakh sq metres in Mandrem. The foundation stone for the proposedproject is likely to be laid on December 19 this year. After the GreenfieldInternational airport at Mopa, this is another big project that has beenapproved for Pernem taluka. The project is coming up close to the internationalairport and will be a huge attraction for the visitors. It is understood thatsmall and medium scale entertainment events will be held here. However, it wasnot decided whether it will be a suitable venue for electronic dance music(EDM). It is a fact that all the entertainment programmes in the State are heldeither in Panaji, which leads to massive traffic congestion or along the coastalbelt which leads to overcrowding due to lack of open space. The entertainmentvillage will give job opportunities for the local youth and small businesses.On the flip-side, having an entertainment village has its own disadvantages. Itwill change forever the quiet life the villagers are used to. There will beforeign tourists and strangers all over the place. Night life will be the orderof the day. Noise pollution during the night is one aspect that needs to beaddressed by the authorities as also drug-abuse and probably even prostitution.The project should safeguard the environment. Most importantly the local peopleshould be taken into confidence over the project.
