Team Goemkarponn
PORVORIM: TCP Minister Vishwjit Rane today informed that TCP has not given any permission to build any structure within the 100 meters buffer zone at Old Goa heritage site.
“We won’t allow any structure in the buffer zone of the Heritage site at Old Goa. Strict action will be taken on trees cut at the site. I request protesters to verify the details,” said Rane
Rane stated that 3,555 survey numbers are in the process of being notified and protected as mangrove reserves within the next 45 days.
Goa Forward Chief Vijai Sardesai raises the issue of project and cannonballs found at heritage zone at Old Goa near the Basilica of Bom Jesus.
“Cannonballs are not just remnants of war but signify hidden chapters of history. The mindless destruction in the name of some scheme cannot be allowed,” said Vijai
He further said that government and Archaeological Survey of India should be told to step in to safeguard this treasure of history for posterity instead of being mute spectator to this crime.
Goa Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte also clarified that there are no plans to construct a mall at the Old Goa Heritage Site.
“Director of Tourism will engage in discussions with the Old Goa Church Authority to address any concerns or doubts,” said Khaunte
He also said that the heritage site will not be developed into a mall, contrary to the misinformation being spread.
With the Save Old Goa Action Committee (SOGAC) deciding to stage a morcha on Sunday to protest the extensive tree-cutting in the buffer zone to make room for the project under the Center’s Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive (PRASAD) Scheme, opposition to the proposed project—which is allegedly a mall—within the world heritage precincts at Old Goa has gained momentum.
To preserve the UNESCO-recognized heritage monument, the group had urged the people of Goa to turn out in force.
