Standing as one of the oldest prisons in Goa, the Aguada Fort will soon open for the public once the renovation is complete. As per reports, the fort is likely to remain open through the week, even on Sundays and public holidays. Thus, visitors will be permitted to flock into this heritage architectural centre on any day, from 8 AM to 11 AM.
The Aguada Fort complex will not be commercialised
The administration of Goa has undertaken the task of redeveloping the 17th century, Portuguese-era Aguada Fort. The project has been budgeted at ₹26 crores and has now reached its final leg. The place features the history and freedom struggle of the state and once the renovation is complete, it will once again garner the attention of all those who wish to explore Goa beyond the beaches.
The state has also conveyed its intention of not commercialising this space, hushing a roar of rumours regarding the government’s ambition to turn the fort prison complex into a private player. A tourism official’s statement clarified that the fort cannot be handed to a private party as it is under the control and management of the Archeological Survey of India (ASI).
To put it simply, a private enterprise can only look after the operations and maintenance of the space, however, the supervision and control will remain with the GTDC. Entry tickets thus, will fall under the scope of the agency appointed, read reports.
Attractions at the refurbished Aguada Fort in Goa
People visiting the refurbished Aguada Fort will experience a unique experience for the complex will be embellished with a host of attractions. The former central jail – the lower fort complex will feature a sound and light show, which will bring out the hardships of Goa’s fight for independence. As per reports, the ticket will be sold at half the price to school students, while freedom fighters and their spouses will be entitled to free entry.
Personal objects used by Dr Ram Manohar Lohia, T B Cunha, the freedom fighters who were prisoners here, will also be put out for display. As per reports, movable life-size statues of these icons will also be installed here, the CM announced. The prison will also detail the role of these personalities in the freedom struggle in English, Marathi and Konkani.
Transport provisions will be assured to facilitate tourist movement from the Santa Monica jetty in Panjim to the Aguada Fort. The GTDC will also arrange two shuttle buses to load tourists to the Aguada Jail premises from the upper fort parking lot.
Tie-ups with local musicians, folk dancers and artists will also flourish here to showcase the vibrancy of Goa’s culture to the tourists. These artists will perform songs, drama and folk dance to attract tourists from across the country. Besides, a museum will also come up at halls one and two of the prison complex.
