PANJIM: Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Friday said that Pope Francis will be invited to visit the State for the decennial exposition of the sacred relics of St Francis Xavier (SFX) to be held later this year.
The 45- day SFX Exposition starting from November 21 this year will be treated as an international event and one officer has been made incharge of each functional area.
After chairing the first meeting of the Exposition Secretariat Committee at Mantralaya, Porvorim, Sawant said that a dedicated web portal will be launched in collaboration with the Archdiocese of Goa, soon for registration of pilgrims. The government will help the registered pilgrims to facilitate their travel and accommodation. Pilgrim Centres will be established around the Church area, and an art exhibition featuring 65 Goan artists will be held at Santa Monica Church.
Sawant said that the State government will extend invitation to Pope Francis besides several national VIPs and international guests will also be invited for the exposition.
According to Sawant, estimated expenditure for the SFX decadal Exposition at Old Goa will be around Rs 300 crore. The State government had also asked the Government of India for funds. Efforts will be made to make the 45 days exposition from November 21 to January 5 next year as a best benchmark event, he added.
The Chief Minister took a review of the existing infrastructure, requirement of enhancement and new infrastructure, traffic and other arrangements at Old Goa and also nearby Cumbharjua areas. He said Rs 200 crore worth infrastructure and other works had already commenced or were in the pipeline. He also informed that ongoing Chimbel bypass road work will be completed before the exposition.
The meeting discussed essential needs such as road access, toilets, beautification, illumination, and signage. Additionally, CCTV cameras will be installed for security, and covered walkways, washrooms, drinking water booths, and a dedicated parking system will be set up. Electric Buggies will be provided to assist in transporting elderly and differently-abled individuals.
