The proposed viewing gallery atop the twin towers of Goa’s iconic Zuari Bridge promises to add a spectacular new dimension to the state’s tourism landscape. The twin towers, rising to a height of 125 metres, are expected to offer visitors an impressive panoramic view of the Zuari River and its surrounding landscape. While one of the floors is planned to accommodate a restaurant another floor will have a conference hall. Thousands of visitors could potentially make their way to the towers every day, particularly during the tourist season. Most visitors are likely to arrive in private cars, taxis, tourist buses and other vehicles. The locations around Cortalim and Agassaim, are already heavily congested. Hundreds of additional vehicles could obviously create serious traffic and parking problems. The government should immediately identify and acquire, wherever necessary, suitable open land in the vicinity for parking facilities. Separate parking arrangements for cars, tourist buses, taxis and two-wheelers could help prevent chaos. A shuttle service from designated parking areas to the towers could also be considered. The towers' success will ultimately depend on how well the government manages what happens on the ground.
ADELMO FERNANDES, Vasco
