the goan I network
MAPUSA
Censuring the administration over scarcity of potable water and foodgrains in the State, the Congress on Tuesday asked the government to alleviate problems faced by the common man so that they at least get basic necessities before the oncoming Chaturthi.
They also demanded that the farmers and those affected by the recent floods in various parts of the State are compensated before the festival season.
North Goa District Congress President Vijay Bhike has written to the PWD executive engineer seeking permission for a site visit of the Assonora treatment plant to inquire into the irregular and contaminated water supply in Bardez.
“In spite of receiving more than the average rainfall in this season, people in Bardez have had to put up with shortage of PWD water supply and whenever the department managed to supply water, it turned out to be dirty water. Are we to believe the PWD is involved is some sort of scam while replacing the gadgets at the treatment plant,” said Bhike, while addressing a news conference in the party office in Mapusa.
He said, when confronted, PWD officials gave false promises and failed to convince consumers on restoration of proper supply.
He further said people who have consumed the dirty water supplied by the department could be susceptible to diseases.
Referring to the recent FIR being lodged against smuggling of foodgrains out of the State meant for fair price shops in State, Bhike said it clearly indicated the malaise in supply to fair price shops (FPS) system.
“The rice and wheat meant for the common man is smuggled outside the State and our people are deprived of foodgrains,” he said.
He urged the government to ensure that people get enough foodgrains before the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi.
The North Goa District Congress, Secretary, Subhash Kerkar slammed the government for only making announcements but failed to compensate the people who have suffered due to the recent floods.
“The agriculture and the revenue departments should ensure that the surveys are conducted at the earliest so that farmers and affected people are compensated before the Chaturthi festival,” Kerkar said.
Bhike also suggested that the government conduct medical camps in areas where people suffered due to the recent floods.
North Goa District Congress Vice President Chandan Mandrekar, North Goa District NSUI Naushad Chaudari and Mapusa Block President Mithali Gadekar were also present.
