MAPUSA
The ruling MLAs, on Wednesday, voiced their concerns in the Goa Legislative Assembly over the deteriorating condition of several aged buildings constructed by the Goa Housing Board, urging the government to take immediate steps for their reconstruction to prevent potential tragedies.
Highlighting the issue, Mormugao MLA Sankalp Amonkar drew attention to the housing board buildings at Baina, which have experienced extensive leakages, corrosion of steel, and falling concrete slabs.
“People have no other option of shelter and hence are forced to stay in these flats. They have made representations to the Goa Housing Board for reconstruction of the buildings,” Amonkar said.
He noted that the building, which contains 32 flats, has been standing for 55 years and is in a severely dilapidated state. “We will have to temporarily rehabilitate the residents and then take up the reconstruction of the buildings,” he added.
Curchorem MLA Nilesh Cabral suggested that long-term residents, who have effectively become the owners of their flats, could take on the responsibility of rebuilding the structures themselves.
Margao MLA Digambar Kamat pointed out that numerous such buildings across the State are in poor condition and require comprehensive action. “Goa Housing Board will not be able to rebuild these structures. The government will have to invite some developers to ensure all such buildings are reconstructed,” Kamat proposed.
He suggested that developers could be offered increased Floor Area Ratio (FAR) to construct additional floors as an incentive.
In response, Housing Minister Sudin Dhavalikar referred to the Goa Housing Board (Registration, Allotment and Sale of Tenements) Rules, 2016.
He explained that the allottee must form a society under the Goa Co-operative Societies Act for the proper maintenance, management, and repair of the buildings.
“Upon formation of the maintenance society by the residents of the 32 LIG flats at Baina Vasco, the overall maintenance and upkeep lie with the said society, and the Goa Housing Board does not have any role in the day-to-day maintenance of the premises,” Dhavalikar stated.
The assembly’s discussion underscored the urgent need for a strategic plan to address the failing infrastructure of the Goa Housing Board buildings and ensure the safety and well-being of their residents.
