VASCO
Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Friday evening said the iconic observatory towers and viewing galleries atop the new Zuari Bridge, to be built at a cost of Rs 270.07, crore, would be a game-changer for the State’s tourism sector.
Addressing a gathering at the Chicalim Panchayat hall after performing the ground-breaking ceremony for the project, Gadkari suggested to the State government hold a design competition among local architects for the twin observatory towers atop the new Zuari Bridge and the winner would be awarded a prize of Rs 1–2 lakh.
“This project aims to create a global landmark and will significantly boost Goa’s tourism, economy, and employment. The project will significantly boost Goa's growth, without any expenditure to the State government. Goa will also earn revenue through GST from the ticket sales from the first of its kind project in India,” the union minister added.
Others present at the event included Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, Union Minister Shripad Naik, MP Sadanand Tanavade, Speaker Ramesh Tawadkar, Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho, Power Minister Ravi Naik, Social Welfare Minister Subhash Phal Dessai, other MLAs and officials.
In his address, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said the State has seen unprecedented road infrastructure development in recent years.
“The government has spent Rs 33,000 crore over the past 11 years on road infrastructure in Goa,” he said.
Sawant also revealed that a water taxi service from Pernem to Canacona has been proposed by Gadkari to further enhance connectivity in the State.
The project, to be constructed over a span of five years, will feature observatory towers inspired by the Eiffel Tower in Paris.
With a revolving restaurant and an art gallery, it is designed to serve as a global tourist attraction and is poised to become a landmark in the State.
To be executed on the DBFOT (Design, Build, Finance, Operate, and Transfer) model, the initiative will involve zero financial burden on the Government. The concessionaire will be responsible for full construction and will operate the facility for a concession period of 50 years.
Strategically placed between pylons on two pile cap foundations, each tower will rise to a height of 125 metre, featuring shaft dimensions of 8.50 metre by 5.50 metre.
The upper levels will house 2 expansive floors with minimum dimensions of 22.50 metre by 17.80 metre, equipped with capsule lifts for panoramic ascents.
Complemented by viewing galleries, cafeterias, and state-of-the-art tourist amenities, the towers will offer a holistic experience.
A dedicated walkway bridge of 7.50 metre carriage width will be constructed on either side in the marine portion, allowing seamless tourist access. Parking facilities will be provisioned on both ends of the bridge, ensuring convenience for visitors.
The project is expected to position Goa as a premier destination for architectural tourism and experiential travel on the international map.
