‘Evolve master plan for Old Goa heritage sites’

PANAJI: In order to ensure that the world heritage site at Old Goa is protected, the Save Old-Goa Action Committee has reiterated its demand for a master plan for the site and is advocating for a blueprint to be included in the Regional Plan 2021.

Committee president Fatima Pereira has stated that 14 Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) protected monuments, eight state protected monuments, 18 unprotected monuments and 15 underground heritage sites be demarcated, with all illegal constructions be removed or relocated.

Hugo Gonsalves, a committee member told mediapersons that constructions are coming up in the vicinity of Bom Jesus Basilica with the blessings of the panchayat. A 100 metre protected and 200 metre regulated zone for ASI and state protected monuments, among other surviving structures should be identified, John Carvalho a committee member said.

The long-standing demand for the road between the Bom Jesus Basilica and Se Cathedral to be closed permanently for traffic, still remains and is a necessity, Peter Viegas the committee's coordinator said. During a visit to Old Goa last week, minister for Archives and Archaeology, Vijai Sardesai spoke in favour of prohibiting vehicles on the road, explaining that the traffic in very close proximity to the ancient structures could put them at risk.