Goa is poised to get a significant boost to its tourism landscape with the upcoming construction of Eiffel Tower-inspired observatory towers on the New Zuari Bridge. This ambitious project, estimated to cost ₹270.07 crore, is set to transform the bridge into a major tourist attraction, offering a blend of architectural marvel, cultural experiences, and panoramic views.
The foundation stone for the project will be laid on May 23 by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari. The project is a collaborative effort with Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, and it aims to create a landmark that rivals the Eiffel Tower in Paris, positioning Goa as a premier architectural tourism destination.
Strategically located between the pylons of the New Zuari Bridge, the observatory towers will rise to a height of 125 meters. The design incorporates shaft dimensions of 8.50 meters x 5.50 meters. Access to the upper levels will be facilitated by capsule lifts, providing visitors with panoramic ascents and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Each tower will be equipped with two lifts capable of holding 13 passengers and two service lifts with a capacity of 2,000 kilograms.
The towers will feature a range of amenities designed to enhance the visitor experience. The upper sections will consist of two split floors or two expansive floors of 28.50 x 22 meters, with a height of 12 meters along with the rooftop. Viewing galleries, cafeterias, and state-of-the-art tourist facilities will be integrated into the design. Adding to the allure, a revolving restaurant will offer a unique dining experience with constantly changing vistas. An art gallery will showcase local and international art, adding a cultural dimension to the attraction.
In Tower-2, located on the Panjim side, the ground floor will house a banquet hall, a brewery restaurant, and other facilities. The first floor with a rooftop will feature a specialty restaurant, while the second floor will be dedicated to a viewing gallery. Provisions for boat parking and movement between the towers will also be available. Special lighting will enhance the bridge's aesthetic appeal. Additional facilities such as ATMs, kiosks, toilets, and food courts are also planned.
A dedicated walkway bridge with a 7.50-meter carriage width will be constructed on either side in the marine portion, ensuring seamless tourist access between the towers. Parking facilities will be provided on both ends of the bridge for the convenience of visitors.
The project will be executed under the Design, Build, Finance, Operate, and Transfer (DBFOT) model, with a concession period of 50 years. This model ensures that the government does not bear the financial burden, while also receiving a share of the revenue generated by the attraction. Bhopal-based Dilip Buildcon, which constructed the New Zuari Bridge, will also execute the observatory towers project through its arm, Zuari Observatory Towers Ltd. The Public Works Department (PWD), Goa, will oversee the project.
The New Zuari Bridge, also known as Manohar Setu, spans the Zuari River and links North and South Goa. It was partially opened in 2022 and fully operational in 2023, quickly becoming the second-longest cable-stayed bridge in India.
The development is expected to significantly boost tourism and economic activity across Goa, creating direct and indirect employment opportunities in hospitality, transport, retail, and other local sectors. The project has already secured necessary permits, including No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from agencies such as the Airports Authority of India and the Pollution Control Board.
