PANJIM:
The State government has approved the transfer of Aguada Central Jail to Goa
Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) to develop the historic structure as a heritage
tourism destination, a project under Swadesh Darshan Scheme.
GTDC is
set to restore and revive the history and heritage of the jail in line
with the concept at the British-built Dhagshai Jail in Himachal Pradesh and
Cellular Jail in the Andaman Islands.
In a
notification issued last week, Home department approved transferring custody of
the premises to GTDC. Since May 30, 2015, the fort no longer houses inmates who
have been shifted to the Correctional Home at Colvale.
GTDC has
taken into confidence Goa Heritage Action Group and the freedom fighters
for the restoration project. One of the major highlights will include bringing
to life the Goa freedom struggle through sound and light shows and
paying tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for
Goa’s Liberation.
GTDC in
May had said the master plan will include activity zones, viewing
galleries, amenity zones, tourist information centers, improvement of
temple and chapel areas, improving cells, corridors, walls,
pathways, sitting area, water fountains, illumination, café and
improvement of aquifer duct area.
Tourism
Department’s Coastal Circuit project was approved under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme
by the Union Tourism Ministry. Part of the funds includes development of Ford
Aguada and the former jail. The cabinet had approved the proposal last month.
