Daijiworld Media Network- Panaji
Panaji, Mar 4: In a swift overnight operation, workers and officials from the Public Works Department (PWD) successfully completed the demolition of the Dev Khapreshwar temple and shifted its idol to another location early Monday morning. The move, which took place at Voddakodde, was executed to facilitate the construction of the Porvorim elevated highway, despite stiff opposition from locals.
PWD officials and the contractor’s workforce arrived at the site around 3:30 am and continued the operation through the early hours. The translocation of the adjoining banyan tree was also completed by the afternoon.
PWD executive engineer Jude Carvalho stated that the alignment for the six-lane elevated highway was finalized in 2019, and the temple caretaker had signed terms of consent before the Supreme Court, agreeing to the relocation of the idol and demolition of the structure.
“While finalizing the alignment, we explored possibilities to save the banyan tree. However, due to its deep roots, it was necessary to remove the temple to allow for its translocation,” said Carvalho.
He also confirmed that the temple caretaker and local panchayats were contacted for suggestions regarding an alternative site to relocate the idol, but no viable options were provided.
“We had successfully shifted a chapel opposite Dr Pinto Rosario Hospital along the same stretch with assistance from the chapel committee. Similarly, I reached out to the temple caretaker on February 26, but received no response. As the High Court had already permitted the translocation of the banyan tree, we proceeded with the work,” Carvalho explained.
A source revealed that the idol has been temporarily placed in a container belonging to RRSM Infra, the contractor handling the elevated highway project.
“We conducted the necessary rituals before shifting the idol and followed all prescribed procedures set by the High Court while translocating the banyan tree,” added Carvalho.
The tree has been transplanted near the temporary office of RRSM Infra in Socorro.
Meanwhile, Congress state vice-president Sunil Kawthankar has lodged a formal complaint with the Crime Branch, Ribandar, seeking an FIR against the contractor, the mamlatdar, and certain police officials for allegedly hurting religious sentiments.
Environmentalists have also raised concerns about the manner in which the banyan tree was pruned, stating that the improper cutting of its branches could adversely impact its survival.