CHANDOR: The possibility of Chandor becoming the permanent host for an annual Heritage Festival, as planned by the government, was disclosed on Wednesday during a meeting to discuss the development of Chandor as a Heritage Village.
While the consensus was on the need for a Heritage Square to host the festival, concerns were raised about obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Church, which owns the property in front of the church where the square is proposed.
Joy D’Silva, Chairperson of the Chandor Parish Pastoral Council, noted, “The church is not willing to give an irrevocable NOC as sought by the government.”
However, ex-sarpanch Edward D’Silva pointed out that this reluctance was due to the church’s fear of losing its land. He lamented that the panchayat faced a similar problem when he was the Sarpanch. He emphasised, “The church has to be explained that the NOC is only for the purpose of construction, and after that is done, they will continue to be owners of the land.”
As the NOC issue was discussed, Village Development Committee Chairman J D’Silva suggested prioritising works on government properties.
“The abandoned primary school premises near the ASI-notified ruins of Shiva temple could be converted into a museum displaying a replica of the old Kadamba fort in the village,” he proposed.
Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation Managing Director Harish Adconkar, while accepting this proposal, also suggested beautifying the area belonging to the PWD along the main road.
The general consensus at the meeting, convened by local MLA and Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao, emphasised the need to prepare a roadmap for the proper development of the village. Regular meetings and site visits were considered necessary.
Yuri Alemao stated, “I have met the Chief Minister twice regarding this issue, and he has extended all support. The Tourism Minister has suggested hosting a Heritage Festival in the village.”
