OLD GOA: The neglected Chapel of St Francis Xavier at Old Goa will get a new lease of life, with the State government set to restore this historical monument before the annual feast of the Saint that will be celebrated on December 4 this year.
The government is also contemplating permanently closing for traffic the road passing between the Se Cathedral and Basilica of Bom Jesus, as a measure to preserve the UNSECO recognised World Heritage Monuments.
Archives and Archaeology Minister Vijai Sardesai on Monday evening visited the Basilica of Bom Jesus and met the Rector Fr Particio Fernandes and other officials in connection with the preparations for the forthcoming feast of St Francis Xavier, that draws lakhs of devotes from across the globe.
Speaking to media persons after the meeting, Sardesai said it is the duty of the government to ensure that historic shrines, heritage sites, are protected and conserved. “One of the major things brought to my notice was the bad condition of the St Francis Xavier chapel at St Paul’s college. It is lying in a state of neglect and we are going to initiate steps to see that it is restored, conserved and protected,” Sardesai said.
“The Department of Archives and Archaeology will commence restoration work by tomorrow (Tuesday) and will ensure that it is ready before the feast,” the Minister said.
Questioned about the cost to be incurred, Sardesai said, “It is a priceless monument and we will spend as much money as required to restore it.”
During the meeting, the church officials also put forth their pending demand for closing for traffic the road stretch between the Se Cathedral and Basilica of Bom Jesus.
“When you talk of protected monuments and if you allow traffic in the close vicinity of the monument then the monument is at risk. We will have to seriously consider closing down of the road for vehicular movement,” Minister said.
On the security of the complex of churches, the government and the church authorities have decided to reduce the entry and exit points to the churches, so that they are kept under surveillance.
