BICHOLIM
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said the restoration of the Sanquelim Fort marks an important step towards developing the site into a major cultural and tourism destination. He announced that the historic fort will be renamed ‘Khem Sawant Bhonsale Fort’.
Speaking after inaugurating the fort, restored by the Department of Archaeology at a cost of Rs 3.25 crore, Sawant said the government plans to develop the area into a cultural hub with facilities such as a National School of Drama centre, Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, a library, recreation centre and children’s park.
Those present included Sanquelim Municipal Council Chairperson Siddhi Prabhu, Deputy Chairperson Dayanand Boryekar, Director of the Department of Archaeology Dr Nilesh Faldesai, Zilla member Sundar Naik and other dignitaries.
Highlighting Goa’s heritage, Sawant said the State is known not only for its beaches and churches but for its forts, temples and historic structures that define its identity. He said preserving this heritage is a collective responsibility.
He said Sanquelim has a rich cultural and historical legacy and that several sites in the region attract visitors from across India and abroad. He described the fort as a living symbol of Goa’s history.
Sawant added that further development works are planned for the site and a blueprint for expansion is already in place, reiterating the government’s commitment to preserving heritage while providing modern facilities.
Director of the Department of Archaeology Dr Nilesh Faldesai said care was taken to preserve the fort’s original character during restoration and that the project will help future generations understand local history.
Siddhi Prabhu described the occasion as historic for Sanquelim, saying the restoration fulfilled a long-standing dream and will boost tourism and cultural activity.
During the programme, Sawant felicitated Milind Ramani and Priyanka Dias for their contributions, and was also honoured by dignitaries present.
