Accessible Boardwalk inaugurated at Miramar Beach ahead of International Purple Fest 2025
Accessibility project completed in record time to ensure Persons with Disabilities can enjoy barrier-free access to the beach and waters during International Purple Fest 2025
Panaji, Goa 7th October’2025: In an effort towards transforming the expereince of Persons with Disabilities into an inclusive and barrier-free destination, the Government of Goa today inaugurated a specially designed Accessible Boardwalk at Miramar Beach — an initiative aimed at providing seamless access for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) to the beach and even into the waters. Developed by the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC) this inclusive infrastructure will serve as a key highlight for delegates attending the upcoming International Purple Fest 2025, scheduled from October 9th to 12th 2025.
The project, undertaken and completed in record time by the Goa Tourism Development Corporation (GTDC), provides seamless and safe access for persons with disabilities (PwDs) to the beach and into the waters—making Miramar Beach one of the most inclusive leisure spaces in the state.
The inauguration ceremony took place in the esteemed presence of Hon’ble Minister for Social Welfare, Shri Subhash Phal Dessai, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism, Shri Rohan Khaunte, State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Shri Guruprasad Pawaskar, Director, Department of Empowerment for Persons with Disabilities, Smt. Varsha Naik, Secretary for Persons with Disabilities, Shri Taha Haziq, Managing Director, GTDC, Shri Kuldeep Arolkar,Shri.Deepak Narvekar,GM-GTDC, Shri.Gavin Dias, Shri. Vishwesh Naik,Mr.Wagle and other GTDC officials were also present.
To further enhance the experience, floating wheelchairs will also be made available, enabling persons with disabilities to safely and comfortably enjoy the sea during the Purple Fest.The dignitaries commended the efforts of GTDC and the Department of Social Welfare for creating a permanent infrastructure that aligns with Goa’s vision of accessible tourism and inclusive development.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri.Subhash Phal Dessai, Hon’ble Minister for Social Welfare stated that “ The inauguration of this boardwalk at Miramar Beach is a reflection of Goa’s unwavering commitment to inclusion. Through the International Purple Fest, we are not only celebrating the spirit and potential of persons with disabilities but also ensuring that accessibility becomes a permanent feature in our development plans. This initiative symbolizes dignity, equality, and empowerment in action.”
Commenting on the initiative undertaken by GTDC in support of Persons with disabilities, Shri Rohan Khaunte, Hon’ble Minister for Tourism stated that “Tourism in Goa has always been about experiences—and every experience should be for everyone. This boardwalk at Miramar is a proud milestone under our vision of ‘Tourism for All.’ By integrating accessibility into our beach infrastructure, we are redefining Goa’s tourism landscape to be more inclusive, compassionate, and globally inspiring.”
Shri Guruprasad Pawaskar, State Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities stated that:
“Accessibility is the bridge between limitation and participation. With the inauguration of the Miramar boardwalk, Goa demonstrates that inclusion is not a favor—it’s a right. This initiative will allow persons with disabilities to enjoy the beauty of the sea like everyone else, making International Purple Fest 2025 a truly barrier-free celebration.”
As the International Purple Fest 2025 brings together delegates, innovators and changemakers from across India and the world, the Miramar Boardwalk stands as a living symbol of Goa’s commitment to accessibility, dignity and equal opportunity for all.
