Panaji: The Union tourism ministry has announced the sanction of Rs 97.5 crore for the development and renovation of the existing Ponda fort and the construction of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Digital Museum. Through the project, which was cleared by the tourism ministry’s Destination Development Division, Goa govt hopes to promote the tourism industry at Ponda.
“The museum on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj aims to provide an immersive and engaging experience that brings the life and legacy of this iconic figure to the modern era,” said a note issued by the Union ministry.
The museum will include attractions such as an augmented reality room, holograms, virtual reality displays, a 5D theatre, and interactive exhibits. Other features will include a war costume gallery, a boat gallery, and a replica of the Saptakoteshwar Stambh. Additional aspects will include a yoga pavilion, horse trails, a light and sound show, a souvenir shop, and cafes. The project is expected to create 30 jobs.
Ponda, famous for the five important temples of Goa, also has the largest mosque in the state. The Centre has also cleared the decks for a town square at Porvorim, which will cost Rs 90.7 crore.
The town square will have parking facilities, a watchtower, and a musical fountain.
Expected to create about 2,000 jobs, the town square will include spaces for many workshops, performances, and exhibitions that showcase Goan music, dance, art, and cuisine. Porvorim, which has become the de facto legislative capital of Goa, derives its name from “por-vod” or the last “vado” of the village of Socorro.