MAPUSA
Indicating his approval to the Town and Country Planning department's decision to have three chief town planners, Urban Development Minister Francis D'Souza has, however, suggested the possibility of "political reasons" for plans to bifurcate the North Goa Planning Development Authority (NGPDA).
Speaking to The Goan following his return to the State on Tuesday, D'Souza said the idea of segregating work in the TCP department had been floated for a very long time.
"One person has too many responsibilities. Most files go to the chief town planner and then to the government. So, having three chief town planners could help in a big way because there is division of labour. If the chief town planner goes on long leave, then a lot of things are held up," said D'Souza.
Asked if he felt the bifurcation of the NGPDA was a good idea, D'Souza replied: "In a way, it makes things convenient. But there might also be political reasons."
"Some years back, the government had formed Mapusa PDA. All plans were submitted in the Mapusa office. We would shift the files to Panaji, get it approved and then get them back to Mapusa."
The minister also sought to explain the sudden removal of his police escort, stating that it was done at his request.
"I had told the escort personnel to report to the head office as I am not the deputy CM any more. They reported to the headquarters, but were informed that they would be officially intimated when to come back. So that was the situation. It (removal of escort) is not a surprise, for me at least," D'Souza added.
D'SOUZA: STRAIGHT TALK
One person has too many responsibilities
Most files go to the chief town planner and then to the government
Having three chief town planners could help in a big way because there is division of labour
If the chief town planner goes on long leave, then a lot of things are held up
Bifurcation of NGPDA a good idea, will make things convenient
Earlier, Mapusa PDA was formed, files would be shifted to Panaji for approval and then sent back to Mapusa
