VASCO
Urban Development Minister Milind Naik on Friday said shifting various government offices from the Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC) could expedite the completion of the MMC building renovation project.
"We have taken up the renovation of MMC building at a cost of Rs 5 crore and the contractor can complete the project faster if all government offices in the MMC building can be shifted faster,” said Naik while speaking to reporters.
“The contractor has assured to complete the project in 5-6 months, after which we can bring all offices back into the building. We have had a number of meeting in this regard and the main issue is the shifting of the Deputy Collector’s office.”
“Our secretary, Tariq Thomas, has contacted the South Goa collector and the main issue was the availability of a strong room. We have assured a solution for this issue,” he added.
Naik said he has spoken to Chief Minister Pramod Sawant and the secretary (revenue) and directions have been issued to the under secretary (revenue) to shift the Deputy Collector’s office.
“After our meeting on Thursday, the main issue of shifting the Deputy Collector’s office will be sorted. We have spoken to the post office and they have agreed.”
“If all these offices shift to a new location, the renovation work can be expedited. We have requested to shift most offices to the newly constructed Sada Market complex for only 3-4 months and we can shift them back before the assembly elections.”
Naik said a government school has been identified for the post office, while the Deputy Collector’s office can be shifted to the Ravindra Bhavan.
“The contractor has agreed to get these temporary premises ready for these offices. This will help the contractor expedite renovation of the MMC building," Naik added.
