MAPUSA
In light of a recent High Court directive against illegal constructions, Panchayats Minister Mauvin Godinho has stated that the government is prepared to assist Goans but will enforce the removal of roadside structures obstructing smooth traffic flow.
Speaking at the inauguration of the renovated Candolim panchayat ghar and hall on Thursday, Godinho emphasised the importance of maintaining order in the State’s construction practices.
“With the High Court order, whatever structures are on the roads will have to be removed. We have observed that people have built structures indiscriminately. There has to be a system in place. While the government will extend help to Goans, those structures that are too close to the roads and block traffic must be removed,” he said.
The event was attended by Calangute MLA Michael Lobo, Candolim Sarpanch Blaize Fernandes, and other panchayat members and officials.
Call for cleanliness,
sustainable tourism
The Panchayats Minister also urged locals to ensure that Goa remains clean and green, highlighting the significance of proper garbage disposal.
He stressed that a clean environment would enhance the tourist experience, ensuring they return with good memories and revisit the State.
“Goa is a God-blessed place. There is no place like Goa or hospitable people like Goans anywhere in the world. Despite attempts by competitive states and foreign countries to tarnish Goa’s reputation and impact tourism, we must remain vigilant,” Godinho said.
However, he cautioned that tourist inflow would only continue if Goa maintains cleanliness and offers good infrastructure.
“Candolim is a prime tourism destination. The Calangute-Candolim belt plays a crucial role in Goa’s tourism sector,” he added, urging residents to actively contribute to keeping the coastal belt clean.
On the development front, Godinho assured that the new faecal sludge treatment plant (FSTP) in Candolim would be completed by June.
He highlighted his ministry’s efforts in enhancing panchayat infrastructure, noting that over 35 new Panchayat Ghars have been constructed since he assumed office, with several others renovated.
Additionally, more than 50 Panchayat Ghars are currently in progress under the Pandit Deendayal infrastructure scheme.
