Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Archdiocese of Goa and Daman has made it clear that it has not granted a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for the proposed PRASAD scheme’s development and execution in Old Goa. This week, the project has been in the news because of protesters who claim that unregulated excavation and construction work was being done at the location where cannon balls and other historical items have been found. Regarding the project, the Se Old Goa Village Panchayat likewise declared itself “clueless.” The government initiative is now in a more difficult situation than it has ever been because of the Church’s declaration.
Reports that the Basilica and the Archdiocese were taken into confidence while completing preparations for a tourist facilitation centre under the PRASAD initiative prompted the Church to provide clarity. The Archdiocese’s Financial Administrator, Fr. Noel D’Costa, said he had spoken on behalf of the Church at discussions about the PRASAD program. He clarified that after the suggestions were first put forth, they were carefully reviewed by senior engineers, architects, and Church historical specialists.
The main goal of their assessments was to make sure that any changes wouldn’t jeopardise the sacredness of the areas. Certain components, including barricades to control access, Segways and e-autos for mobility, water ATMs, CCTV cameras, exterior lighting, baggage scanners, metal detectors, self-propelled sweeping machines, dust bins, landscaping, seating arrangements, and informational signage, were taken into consideration based on these evaluations.
Fr. D’Costa highlighted, however, that the Church had significant concerns about the proposed Heritage Interpretation Center’s location, size, style, and applicability, as well as the planned parking lot. Concerns over the Arsenal location, where the parking structure was intended, were specifically raised by the Archdiocese. To find and mark possible ruins and remnants, it was recommended that the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) carry out a survey. In order to preserve underlying heritage and promote groundwater absorption, the Church also suggested that any parking structure be built using detachable and permeable materials.
