Goa: ‘Ask ASI to finish basilica restoration before rains’

PANAJI: Goa governor Satya Pal Malik has sought the Union culture minister’s intervention in the matter of the negligence of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in preservation, conservation and restoration of the Basilica of Bom Jesus, Old Goa.
Malik, in a telephonic conversation with minister of culture Prahlad Singh Patel, under whom the ASI functions, requested him to direct ASI authorities to complete all restoration works in a time bound manner, and if possible, before the monsoon arrives in Goa.
Patel assured Malik that he would send senior ASI authorities to visit the Basilica.
Malik also addressed a letter to Patel, in which he stated that “the entire attitude of the ASI in preserving, conserving and restoring the basilica seems to be casual and lackadaisical. The report of the ASI reflects uncoordinated action and non-committal attitude of the different branches of ASI in dealing with preservation and restoration of the architectural marvel”.
He further said that ASI cited various constraints for the slow pace of the repair work, including non-availability of sand, disturbance during feast time and unresponsive behaviour of the contractors.
The governor also reiterated issues raised by rector Fr Patricio Fernandes over ASI’s negligence in repairs of side roof, false ceiling, toilets left unrepaired for three years, no safety measures despite threat to security, no proper landscaping for pavement, wooden altars in danger of crumbling due to termites, lack of restoration of paintings in Basilica, neglect of mausoleum and mastrillian casket, neglect of interior repair works among others.
Malik further stated that the basilicais one of the best examples of Baroque architecture and holds special importance not only for Goans but for the entire Catholic community of the world as it holds the mortal remains of St Francis Xavier.