Panaji: The Rs 125.6 crore Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Digital Museum at Farmagudi, initially slated for completion in April, is now expected to be ready by Nov, tourism minister Rohan Khaunte said on Monday.Khaunte inspected the ongoing works at the Mangueshi parking facility and the museum project and directed contractors to expedite construction.“We have completed 60% of the work. We have given them a target to complete the digital museum, which is being built with support from central funds, by Oct 31. We want to ensure that the project is completed by Oct end or Nov,” said the minister.Of the total cost, Rs 97.4 crore has been provided by the Union tourism ministry and Rs 28 crore by state govt. The project includes renovation of the existing fort and construction of the digital museum.According to govt plans, the museum will support tourism-related services, generate employment and provide a platform for local artisans and artists. It will also host exhibitions, cultural events and public programmes through the year.Spread over 29,212 sqm, including the existing fort area, the museum is expected to feature an augmented reality room, holograms, interactive exhibits, a war costume gallery, a boat gallery, a replica of the Saptakoteshwar Stambh, a light-and-sound show, souvenir shops and cafes. The project is expected to generate 30 jobs.“There will be two entry points with a main parking area being created. We are also planning to have a shuttle service from the parking lot and from the temple so that from morning to late evening people can see the light and sound show,” said Khaunte.The minister also said work on renovating toilets at the Mangueshi temple will be expedited and completed at the earliest.
