MAPUSA
Congress party’s Lok Sabha candidate Ramakant Khalap emphasised the critical importance of water for Goa’s consumers, calling for a thorough investigation into the utilisation of funds allocated for the Tillari water project.
Expressing his familiarity with the challenges faced by locals in each village, Khalap highlighted the widespread water scarcity affecting various sectors, including schools, agriculture, and drinking water supply.
He recounted his pivotal role in restarting the Tillari project, which saw progress halted after his departure from the cabinet.
Khalap raised concerns over the allocation of funds, citing Rs 150 crore raised internally and an additional Rs 100 crore sanctioned by the Centre, demanding transparency and accountability in their utilisation.
Accompanied by Congress party members including Aldona MLA Carlos Ferreira and former Goa Pradesh Congress Committee President Girish Chodankar, Khalap criticised incumbent MP Shripad Naik for failing to address water supply issues effectively.
Naik’s tenure overseeing the water resources portfolio was marked by the inability to restart the Tillari project and the loss of Mhadei water to Karnataka, without raising objections. Khalap also pointed out deficiencies in infrastructure for tourism, under Naik’s oversight of the culture and tourism department.
Ferreira echoed Khalap’s sentiments, lamenting the government’s disconnect from the people and urging voters to elect Khalap with a significant majority.
Chodankar rallied party workers to engage with voters and advocate for change, emphasising the need for a shift in governance for the betterment of the country.
