Panjim , Aug 5, 2019: Goa Tourism Development Corporation is all set to develop the Selaulim Dam property as Top hinterland tourism attraction on line sir famous Mysore Brindavan Gardens which is expected attract tourists to Goa in large numbers.
The unique project was given the green signal at a recently held GTDC board meeting and project consultant, Pune based, M/s Fourth Dimension Architects Private Ltd. is in the final stages of designing and planning the components to be set up within the project.
The Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Mr. Manohar Ajgaonkar said, “The development of Selaulim Dam property will give a big boost to hinterland tourism in the State of Goa. Today Goa Tourism is focusing on hinterland tourism as it is opening new opportunities for locals in and around those respective tourist locale. Selaulim Dam is very beautiful during the monsoons and developing the property downstream on the same lines as the Brindavan Gardens will add value and boost footfalls to Goa.”
The Hon’ble Chairman of Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), Mr. Dayanand Sopte said” I am very happy that the GTDC Board has cleared the project for development of the Selaulim Dam property on the lines of the Brindavan Gardens in Mysore. This project will be developed in coordination between the Goa Tourism Development Corporation, Goa Forest Development Corporation & Water Resources Department. On completion, this locale will attract tourists from far and wide and will also open up employment opportunities for Goans living around the Selaulim Dam located in Sanguem taluka”
The project is estimated to cost Rs. 50 crore and the GTDC is proposing to tap the funds under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme of the the Union Ministry for Tourism.
Initial project details unveiled by the GTDC indicates that a total area of 42 acres will be developed with close to 10 components to be set up, in addition to maintaining some of the existing infrastructure.
Key attractions of this project will include an amphitheatre having a capacity for 300 people, musical fountains, bird sanctuary, meditation and yoga zone, fruit orchards, children’s play area, glass house, herbal garden, artisans village, nature interpretation center and e-library.
A butterfly park, nakshatra garden, medicinal plantations, rock garden, rose garden, spice garden, tropical garden and navagraha gardens are planned. An orchidarium showcasing variety of orchids is proposed.
An adventure zone will include archery, bungee trampoline, rope challenge, paint ball, rock climbing, maze, rocket ejecter, zorbing and a waterfall.
A nature trail, giant wheel, viewing decks, outdoor restaurant, information counter, rest rooms, bio-retention pond on the existing water body , an entrance plaza and GFDC office will be set up therein.
A special buggee track will also be set up and will add attraction for visiting tourists, facilitate mobility for tourists with special needs and for children.
Pathways within the new set up will be designed having water resource management. This method will help to manage rain water and recharge ground water and aquifer. An STP is also proposed whose water will be used for irrigation and flushing solid water for biogas production. The project is also being designed to generate solar power.
Another attraction proposed is to showcase the Seven Wonders of Goa which will include some of the State’s churches, temples, forts, heritage monuments etc.
The project proposes to set up special picnic spots within the property which can be used by tourists, school children and locals all year round. Special zones for selfies within the components is proposed.
Selaulim Dam is located 40 kms from Margao in Sanguem taluka and is currently a huge attraction for tourists for its picturesque sights during the monsoons. The project has support from Local MLA Prasad Gaonkar who is keen to develop the area into top tourism destination.
