OLD GOA
The tourism season has started and thousands of tourists visit Old Goa on a daily basis to visit the world-famous churches like the Basilica of Bom Jesus and the Se Cathedral.
Apart from the marvels of the churches, the gardens within the Se Cathedral precincts also attract tourists, with many of them using them to relax for some time.
However, the gardens have not been maintained and concerns have been raised, especially since the Novena and Feast of St Francis Xavier will begin later this month.
“Tourists come in hordes here and it is important that the gardens are maintained. However, the grass and bushes have overgrown and have given the area a shabby look,” said Se Cathedral Parish Priest Fr Rosario Oliveira.
“I have written about it to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) but they say funds have not been released. Tourists often ask me why the gardens are not maintained as they are under the impression that it is our duty to maintain the gardens,” Fr Oliveira added.
Fr Oliveira also informed that after dusk, the entire area around the Se Cathedral falls into darkness due to a lack of electrification.
“The lights are not working and the surroundings around the church are in complete darkness,” Fr Oliveira stated.
