the goan I network
CANACONA
Admitting that the bus stand was in need of urgent roof repair work, Canacona Deputy Collector Pritidas Gaonkar assured he will insist on repair work before the monsoons, failing which the bus stand would be declared unsafe for use.
The activists met Gaonkar in his office, after their attempts to cover the broken portions of the roof were stopped by the police.
Gaonkar admitted to the poor condition of the roof at the KTC bus stand and said it needed immediate attention before the monsoon.
“I had inspected the complex on March 13 after the media had highlighted the issue and on the same day had written to KTC to repair and renovate the bus stand within ten days.”
“But the lockdown was enforced and I heard nothing from the KTC. I will send a reminder to the KTC again and if repair work is not undertaken within 10 days after lockdown ends on May 3, I will declare the KTC bus stand as unsafe and will not permit any activity in the complex,” said Gaonkar.
“The KTC bus stand is unsafe without repair work and it is dangerous if portions of the roof come crashing down on people during heavy rains and strong winds. The entire roofing needs urgent repairs,” Gaonkar added.
Incidentally, the PWD is reported to have invited tenders to replace the roof sheets and painting of the steel structure at an estimated cost of Rs 29,37,635.
According to sources, the tender was published on April 16 and while the bids were to be submitted by April 22, they were to be opened on April 24.
Sources, however, informed that no bids were received by PWD and hence there was no further process.
When this was brought to his notice, the Canacona deputy collector said the department concerned and even KTC could undertake the work on its own in such emergency situations, to prevent any threat to lives and property.
