the goan I network
PONDA
Minister for Art and Culture Govind Gaude on Monday inspected the partially damaged Shivaji fort at Farmagudi-Ponda on Monday and said that it would be given a Rs 2.5 crore face-lift by 2019.
The members of Hindavi Swaraj, students of PES institution and supporters of Priol MLA Gaude participated in the cleanliness drive on Monday morning. Gaude also cleaned the area after the inspection. The officer of Goa Tourism Development Corporation Sumant Nadkarni was present on the occasion, while representatives of Hindavi Swaraj led by Nandadeep Naik were also present.
Speaking to media persons, Gaude, who used to perform role of Shivaji in Marathi drama, said the initial estimate of complete face-lift of Shivaji fort is done at Rs 1.91 crore. "We have plans to complete the work before Shiv Jayanti in 2019. The estimate may shoot up to Rs 2.50 crore, as we may add several things," he said.
"It is not only the repair work of the wall which collapsed recently, but illumination, fitting of new pavers and installing CCTVs are also in the proposal," Gaude said.
"We want to preserve the sanctity of this place. Our efforts are there not to use cement, but to give real look of fort. This is very much possible. We will also take suggestions from public," Gaude added.
Gaude also said Ponda is known as educational hub and there are several tourism spots which can attract tourists. "There are efforts to attract tourists at this fort. As the work of this fort begins, we will plan to make this best tourism spot," he said.
Speaking to The Goan, Nadkarni said the proposal is ready and it will be submitted to the government. "Once we get the approval, tenders will be floated," he added. It may be recalled that a portion of the fort had collapsed in the last week of August.
