Panaji: With govt proposing to notify a largely pristine stretch of Rajbid — the centuries-old trade route from Agasaim to Old Goa — as a protected monument, hopes have brightened for conserving the historic link between two former capitals.The unique laterite stone-paved road, about 65 ft wide, spanned more than 8km from Gopakpattan port (Agasaim-Goa Velha) to Ela (Old Goa) of yore. It survived the onslaught of time and anthropogenic pressures during dynastic rule since the 11th century and the Portuguese era.But in recent decades, it has been buried under tar in three stretches and encroached upon towards Goa Velha. Recently, TOI reported that heritage lovers protested the vandalism attempt to carve out a 2-km motorable road at Batim.Chief minister Pramod Sawant visited the spot with officials, discussed the history of the region’s landscape and real-estate development threats, and instructed police officials to investigate and apprehend persons responsible for damaging the road.“This stretch, which is not a routine traffic thoroughfare nor used by villagers (except as a path), should be notified as a protected monument and fenced off,” said Sawant. He said vehicle movement needs to be restricted and the debris should be cleared to conserve it.Balaji Shenoy, additional director of the directorate of archaeology, told the CM that the department, with the help of the town and country planning department and the department of survey and land records, had begun surveying and mapping the entire stretch up to the old port.“Gopakpattan port has already been notified. In future, more stretches (of Rajbid) can be considered, and the whole area can be a big attraction and part of a heritage circuit,” said CM.Activist Ramrao Wagh, who complained and sought govt intervention, said alert citizens had foiled a similar attempt two years ago.Sawant conceded that the road is vulnerable to threats of tar being poured on it. “It is the duty of govt to protect and conserve heritage sites. This road built during Jayakeshi 1 can be notified, and other sections can be considered after proper study,” he said.History researchers Prajal Sakhardande and Rohit Phalgaonkar interacted with the CM about the historical aspects of the port and region. Batim sarpanch Krishnanath Naik and Curca-Bambolim deputy sarpanch Vinesh Adpaiker briefed him on the nocturnal activity to level the road and the police complaint they had filed. Heritage enthusiasts also discussed the nearby Saundekar Palace, the former residence of the Sunda kings, which had a unique cellar.Sawant said govt can consider extending protection to this site after consulting with the private property owner.
