CM Pramod Sawant has directed the State Archaeology Department to notify the surviving stretch of the 11th-century Rajbid, or royal road connecting Old Goa to the ancient Gopakapattanam port at Goa Velha, as protected under the Goa Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1978. Inspecting the site following alleged filling and levelling with mud, Sawant directed that the filling be removed and police take action against those responsible. He said the person undertaking the work had fled and the machinery used would be seized within two days. Sawant said the notification would be issued within a few days and the remaining stretch fenced. The government is considering restoring and maintaining the road in its original form and keeping it open for public viewing. Dating to the reign of Kadamba ruler Jaykeshi I, the stone-paved route served trade between Gopakapattanam port and Old Goa. Residents, social activists and heritage enthusiasts have repeatedly sought protection for Rajbid, raising concerns over landfilling, excavation and tarring. The remains of Gopakapattanam port had already been granted protected status.
