Panaji: With preparations gathering pace for the forthcoming Novena and Feast of St Francis Xavier, the Basilica of Bom Jesus has issued a cautionary advisory urging pilgrims, tourists and other visitors to exercise extra care while moving around the church premises, particularly in the pandal area, where various preparatory works and arrangements are currently under way.Basilica rector Fr Jovito D’Souza, SJ, said that several works and arrangements have been under way in and around the historic Basilica since Nov 6 in preparation for the annual religious celebrations dedicated to St Francis Xavier.The rector has urged pilgrims and tourists to exercise caution, follow all safety instructions and respect barricades and restricted zones put in place during the preparatory period.Visitors have also been requested to cooperate with the personnel and volunteers deployed at the site to ensure that the work progresses safely and to prevent any untoward incidents.The advisory emphasises that people should not disregard safety arrangements or enter areas cordoned off for ongoing activities.The Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, houses the sacred relics of St Francis Xavier and remains a major centre of Christian pilgrimage. The Basilica’s advisory is linked to preparations for the forthcoming Novena and Feast of St Francis Xavier.While the advisory does not announce any closure of the Basilica or cancellation of visitor access, it makes clear that caution is necessary in areas where preparatory activities are in progress.
