PANAJI
The State government has accelerated work on its proposed semi-open jail at Colvale, with the Public Works Department (PWD) now tasked with preparing the architectural plan and building layout for the facility.
The project, aimed at strengthening prisoner rehabilitation, has been given a one-year deadline for completion. The project was initially mooted in May last year following directions of the Supreme Court to States across India to promote open and semi-open prison systems as part of correctional reforms. Following which a detailed study was conducted by prison authorities, who visited facilities like Yerwada Central Jail in Pune to understand the functioning of open and semi-open prison systems.
A senior official said that progress of the project was reviewed at a high-level meeting held last week under the chairmanship of the Chief Secretary. During the meeting, the office of the Inspector General of Prisons made a detailed presentation outlining the proposed location, operational framework and overall functioning of the semi-open jail.
“PWD has been asked to prepare the building layout plan and submit it within a week’s time for finalisation,” the official said.
The semi-open jail at Colvale is expected to include dormitories, workshop spaces and other infrastructure to support rehabilitation activities. The facility is planned over an area of around 14,000 square metres, with an estimated cost of approximately Rs 19 crore.
“The facility will focus on reformation by allowing selected inmates to engage in productive activities under a less restrictive environment. This will help inmates develop skills, improve behaviour and prepare for reintegration into society,” official said.
Officials indicated that the semi-open jail will cater to prisoners who meet specific eligibility criteria, including good conduct, and will operate with a balance of supervision and autonomy.
