The Government of Goa has formally expressed its intention to declare the remains of the historic Gopakapattana port as a protected monument or site under the Goa Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1978, and the corresponding Rules of 1980. This significant move was revealed in response to a question tabled by MLA Viresh Borkar during the state assembly session on Monday.
Notification and Public Consultation Process
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant confirmed in the official reply that a notification regarding the government's intention to declare the Gopakapattana port remains and a cave at Siridao as protected has been published in the official gazette. On March 5, the state government issued a broader notification expressing its intent to declare a total of 15 monuments and archaeological sites across Goa as protected monuments or protected areas under the same 1978 Act.
The government has invited objections and suggestions from the public within a two-month period from the date of publication in the gazette. This step ensures transparency and allows for community input before finalizing the protected status.
Comprehensive List of Proposed Protected Sites
The list of proposed protected monuments includes several historically significant locations spread across various talukas in Goa. Among the key sites are:
- Malar cave at Malar in Tiswadi
- A cave at Siridao
- Hath Katro Khambo in Old Goa
- Ruins of Convent of Our Lady of Mount Carmel at Chimbel
- Jacquem cave at Neturlim in Sanguem
- Bawlyache Mol at Pirla in Quepem
- Pandurang Mutt and Mukhyapran, Maruti Mutt at Balli
- Remains of Temple Sasore Khaddem at Cordem
- Tamsuli Cave in Khandola
- Historic Mardangad Fort at Queula in Ponda taluka
- Ruins of Surya temple and Thadgi memorials at Kudnem in Bicholim
- Rock cut tank at Dabolim in Mormugao
- Damodar Temple tank, Fatorda
Regulatory Framework and Conservation Measures
Once officially notified as protected monuments or areas, these sites will come under the regulatory framework of the state archaeology department. This designation empowers the department to undertake conservation efforts, restrict unauthorized construction, and regulate activities in the vicinity of the monuments to preserve their historical integrity.
Historical Significance of Gopakapattana Port
The Gopakapattana port, located at Goa Velha, extends over a stretch of 5 kilometers from Goa Velha to Agasaim. It was constructed with massive laterite buttresses, which remain visible even today at low tide from Kharossai in Goa Velha through Mascarenhas vaddo to Dandim in Agasaim along the banks of the Zuari River.
This port was a bustling hub frequented by foreign ships and traders from diverse parts of the world, including Romans, Persians, Arabs, as well as merchants from Ceylon and China. Traders from various regions of the Indian subcontinent, such as Gujarat and Bengal, also visited the port, highlighting its role in ancient maritime trade and cultural exchange.
The government's initiative aims to safeguard this rich heritage for future generations, ensuring that these archaeological treasures are preserved amidst modern development pressures.
