Goa, Aug. 11 -- Panjim's Latin Quarter is facing a fresh test of wills between heritage preservation and modern governance. Residents of Sao Tome, Fontainhas and Mala wards have come together to challenge a compliance notice from the Electricity Department, which mandates installing power meters on the exteriors of their heritage buildings.

Through their collective body - the Community Association of Residents and Establishments (CARE) - they argue that the directive threatens the architectural integrity of the Conservation Zone, an area protected under the Goa State Heritage Policy 2025 and recognised by UNESCO.

Under these protections, any alteration to facades or structures requires clearance from the Conservation Committee. CARE say...