We will protect Gopakapattanam Port, Ubo Guno site: Phal Dessai | Goa News

Original: Archaeology Minister Subhash Phal Dessai told the meeting on Monday that it depends on the findings of the National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) whether the Gopakapattanam harbour in Goa Velha is declared as a monument under archaeology or categorised under the proposed heritage policy.

In 2018-19, the government had appointed the NIO’s marine archaeology to explore and excavate the Gopakapattanam harbour site. “The NIO’s findings will help determine the classification of the site,” Phal Dessai told St Andre MLA Viresh Borkar, who wanted to know why it took six years for the NIO to submit its findings.

“Gopakapattanam even finds mention in Ramayana and Mahabharata,” Borkar said and urged the government to ask the NIO to give the report as soon as possible. “Do whatever is needed to restore the historical site. It should be promoted as a tourist spot,” the MLA said,

Govt, Phal Dessai said, was committed to protecting ancient heritage sites under the yet to be published Goa Heritage Policy. Efforts will be made to get the NIO report without further delay, he said.

To expand

The other site of historical significance that is not among the protected monuments of the department is the Ubo Guno (standing stone) in Poirem. Situated near the ruins of the Sateri temple, Ubo Guno is a megalith, which most probably dates from the period of Badami Chalukya rule.

“We know that the Ubo Guno needs protection as it is exposed to rain, sunlight and other adverse weather conditions. This is covered by the heritage policy that is being developed,” said Phal Dessai.

A heritage policy is being developed to protect monuments from further degradation.