MARGAO
Goa Forward Chief Vijai Sardesai has dashed off a letter to the Chief Secretary seeking his intervention to save Margao’s heritage buildings from further deterioration.
In his letter highlighting the state of the heritage buildings including the over-century-old Margao Municipal building, the Margao Urban Health Centre building and the Administrator of Communidades building, Sardesai said these historic structures are in extreme disrepair, warranting immediate action that would further prevent their deteriorating and decay, besides averting potential hazards to public safety.
“It is particularly disheartening that even when I had raised these issues during the last monsoon session of the Goa Legislative Assembly, no substantial effort has been taken to address them. There is no doubt that the impending monsoon season will exacerbate the situation, as these structures are highly vulnerable to heavy rains,” he said.
The Goa Forward Chief urged the Chief Secretary to undertake the repair and restoration of these heritage buildings on priority.
“A comprehensive action plan with clear timelines and sufficient allocation of resources is essential. The historical and cultural significance of these buildings cannot be overstated, and their preservation is crucial for the heritage of Goa,” he said.
Saying that he trusts that the Chief Secretary would take this matter seriously, and initiate the necessary measures to ensure the timely and effective repair of Margao's heritage buildings, Sardesai said prompt action in this issue will be greatly appreciated by the citizens of Goa, and will demonstrate the government's commitment to preserving our cultural heritage.
Referring to the Margao Urban Health Centre Building, Sardesai said pointed out that partial repairs are currently underway, but progress is slow, with the front section covered by a plastic sheet.
“The completion timeline remains uncertain due to bureaucratic delays and funding issues,” he said.
Saying that the repair work on the Administrator of Communidades Building is stalled due to the lack of sufficient bids for the project, he pointed out that the building is in a state of neglect, with significant structural deterioration posing risks to occupants and visitors.
As far as the Margao Municipal Council is concerned, Sardesai said despite repeated assurances, there has been no significant progress on repairs.
