Oppn for master plan to protect Old Goa’s Unesco sites

Porvorim: The legislative assembly witnessed heated discussions on Wednesday over the urgent need for a comprehensive master plan to safeguard Unesco world heritage sites at Old Goa.A calling attention motion, tabled by opposition leader Yuri Alemao along with MLAs Viresh Borkar, Carlos Ferreira, and Venzy Viegas, pointed to growing concerns over illegal constructions threatening the heritage sites despite existing protections given by the ASI under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958.Alemao drew the attention of the House to a news report revealing the presence of 54 illegal structures within the heritage area.

He demanded immediate action to address these violations that persist despite established zones around the 14 protected monuments and sites.TCP minister Vishwajit Rane assured the House that govt has prioritised the protection of Unesco-recognised sites. “No violations will be allowed,” Rane said.MLA Viresh Borkar criticalling the TCP minister a “U-turn master” for failing to fulfil his earlier assurance of marking the buffer zone on the Regional Plan within three months. This infuriated Rane, who accused Borkar of vitiating the sanctity of the House. “He can point out specific violations, but he can’t be calling names. He will only get replies that are required to be given by law, nothing more,” Rane said.MLA Vijai Sardesai too called for a comprehensive master plan to address frequent violations of the regional plan affecting these protected areas. Rane assured to consult with the conservation committee on the opposition’s demand.