the goan I network
OLD GOA
The Basilica of Bom Jesus, one of the seven world heritage monuments in Old Goa and the most popular, is facing a threat to its existence and the threat comes from none other than the protectors of the monument, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
An anguished Rector of the Basilica Fr Patricio Fernandes has shot off a strongly worded letter to the Superintending Archaeologist of ASI (Goa Circle), highlighting how utter neglect by ASI in protection, preservation and conservation of the Basilica is leading to the deterioration of the monument.
Stating that the Basilica has sustained considerable damage in the past few days due to pre-monsoon showers and is in serious danger of further deterioration due to ASI’s sheer negligence, Fr Fernandes has suggested many measures, including completion of restoration works before the monsoons.
“The ASI’s indifference towards the Basilica “ considered of religious and tourist importance all over the world for several centuries “ has been most shocking and
unacceptable,” the rector said.
Fr Fernandes came down heavily on the ASI’s failure to undertake repairs on time. “Whether it is the shoddy repair work, poor drinking water and toilet facilities, lack of barricades or maintenance work, ASI has been guilty of gross neglect,” he opines.
The ASI’s decision to undertake repairs of the side roof, false ceiling and flooring of the Basilica in May, has also not gone down well with the Rector, who has expressed disbelief that such works were sought to be undertaken barely a month before the rains.
“I refused to allow any portion of the roof at the Basilica to be touched at that time of the year, but assigned January as the appropriate month to undertake the two month duration work,” Fr Fernandes said.
He expressed disappointment that though the work began in January, it turned out to be a total fiasco as with a month, the work was abandoned and ASI showing no haste to expedite the work before the arrival of pre-monsoon April showers.
“The delay due to the ongoing lockdown is no excuse and only highlights the ASI’s inefficiency to complete a work that should have been completed much before the lockdown.”
The rector also alleged that work had been deliberately ignored with the sole intention to destroy the ancient monument.
“The pre-monsoon rains a few days ago have wet the walls, wooden beams and the wooden floor. The damage is colossal. The present situation of the neglected side roof has caused immense loss, because the wood and the walls are wet and they will easily be attacked by termites, destroying the centuries-old structure and posing a serious threat to the entire wooden floor and altars of the Basilica,” he said.
He expressed disappointment that though the work has resumed, it is with a lackadaisical attitude and with no concern for the monument.
Copies of his letter have been forwarded to the archbishop of Goa, governor, chief minister, minister of archives and archaeology, ASI director general, North Goa collector and others.
