MARGAO
The district administration and the Church authorities are busy involved in giving final touches to the arrangements for the two-day veneration of the relics of St Anthony of Padua at the Padre Pio Chapel at Moddi-Navelim during the weekend.
South Goa Additional Collector, Agnelo Fernandes, who had a meeting with the police, including security and traffic at Moddi-Navelim on Thursday evening, told The Goan that around 200 volunteers appointed by the parishes will be on the field to assist the faithful and ensure smooth veneration of the relics.
He said parking arrangements are being put in place to accommodate around 700-800 two-wheelers and around 500-600 cars close to the Padre Pio Chapel. This is besides the arrangements being put in place for the dozens of buses expected to bring devotees from various parishes of South Goa to the venue on Saturday and Sunday.
He pointed out that drinking water facilities and health facilities, including wheel chairs, will be arranged for the faithful at the venue.
Fr Gabriel Fernandes interacted with the volunteers, followed by an address by PI Kapil Nayak of the Margao police station, who informed that around 180 policemen, including traffic police will be deployed around Moddi during the two-day event.
Margao Traffic Cell in-charge, PI Mohan Gawde and ex-minister Avertano Furtado and others were present during the interaction.
Meanwhile, St Anthony’s relics consisting of a rib and part of the flesh will be exposed for public veneration at the Alverno Friary Chapel, Monte de Guirim from March 2 to 3 afternoon and from March 3 evening till March 4 afternoon.
