PANJIM: Extreme weather conditions and negligence on the part of the authorities in terms of maintenance seems to be taking a toll on the iconic statue at the Dona Paula jetty that has been undergoing a gradual deterioration over the years.
The statue, considered a symbol of love, has developed massive cracks and many fear it may crumble without a warning. In fact, people, history lovers and historians have constantly raised concern over the upkeep of the statue and have sought its immediate restoration.
As Herald visited the iconic site, it was clearly visible that the statue had developed massive cracks and with the heavy rainfall some portions of the concrete were just waiting to collapse. It was a similar scene at the pergola atop the hillock, as steel rods were visible and disaster was just waiting to happen.
History professor Prajal Sakhardande said that the statue has been in a dilapidated condition for the last five years and the authorities have failed to maintain it since its installation.
“I appeal to the government to conserve this statue as it has historic importance. The statue has to be restored to its original condition. Today there are techniques wherein the statue can be brought back to original condition by reconstructing it,” Sakhardande said.
A member of History Lovers Group, Goa, Rohan Bandekar, said the memorial statue of Mr and Mrs Knox at Dona Paula is in a dilapidated state and the pergola on the top too is in a sad condition.
The government has failed to take care of the historic structures even though the place is one of the most-visited tourist destinations in Goa, he said, adding the government should put up information about the place as a lot of myths are being spread about Dona Paula and the statues.
However, the authorities seem to be passing the buck saying that the maintenance of the statue is not their job.
When Herald contacted Goa Tourism it was informed that only the garden at the jetty was under them. Similarly, Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) said it was not their job. “The maintenance of the Dona Paula statue is looked after by GSIDC,” GTDC chairman Nilesh Cabral said.
GSIDC, when contacted, revealed that the entire project was transferred to the Imagine Panaji Smart City Development Ltd (IPSCDL). “IPSCDL have appointed the consultant we have the documents where we have transferred the entire project to the smart city. Why is the smart city not taking the responsibility when they own the project?” GSIDC Managing Director Srinet Kothwale said.
However, IPSCDL denied this stating that their project is redevelopment and not the maintenance of the statue.
