Panaji: With five buildings on the old PWD site on the edge of Rua de Ourem Creek is scheduled for demolition, legacy activists are left to regret the direction of transparency and government institutions for public consultations in pursuing large ticket projects.
Some building periods with extraordinary extraordinary features near Azad Maidan have been among the lost inheritance assets over the past few decades in the city.
At least three of the five buildings in the former Publica (now PWD) the pre-liberation era site is iconic.
At the city entrance – and sandwiched between two bridges – they are mixed perfectly with a legacy landscape on the river.
In the roof debris cleaned and several columns knocked down, legacy lovers note that the 100-year-old tree has become a victim of demolition by Imagine Panaji Smart City Development Limited (IPSCDL).
“A 100-year-old tree has been hacked mercilessly only because the branch touches the building.
All of this is so that the smart city office can be accommodated in this structure,” said Heta Pandit historian, spoke on behalf of Goa Heritage Action Group (GHAG).
The Heritage Group has written to IPSCDL regarding the destruction of heritage and the environment in a location that demands immediate stop for its activities.
“Loss of the original building structure on behalf of restoration and lack of transparency or consultation with the public about these projects is worrying.
All original roofs have been removed and the inheritance floor is left open with debris and other spills on it,” Pandit said.
The group consisting of historians, architects and activists are now awaiting an audience with IPSCDL officials to ensure protected zones are formed around other heritage structures in the city.
“All structures of the inheritance owned by the government must be restored and maintained for the right operational use.
Periodic audit of inheritance sites must be done, and any non-negotiating renovations with legacy norms must be repaired by the owner.
Citizens must also be trusted about plans For iconic structures in the city.
Technical and professional experienced experienced experts must be appointed for projects in the city, “said the letter.