The Archdiocese estimates at least 1 lakh pilgrims will visit Old Goa daily with numbers expected to touch 1.5 lakh during the novenas and December holidays. The Church has made special arrangements to accommodate 1,800 pilgrims with beds and food by charging them a nominal fee of Rs 150. An additional 500 pilgrims are proposed to be accommodated at its retreat house.
“All arrangements are taken care of and elaborate arrangements for security, traffic plans, cleanliness are being worked out by the government,” Fr Alfred Vaz, Convener of the SFX Exposition Committee-2014 said.
The traffic police have made arrangements for traffic management including parking while security arrangements by the police are already in place. The new by-pass and road works are on at hectic pace and Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar is expected to inaugurate the new bypass on November 22.
The tents for officials and pilgrims are ready and finishing touches are being given to the pandals that will host the masses while water filters are being set up.
