PANJIM: A delegation of Goa Forward Party (GFP) on Thursday met the Governor P S Sreedharan Pillai and submitted a memorandum pointing out the corruption taking place in public projects such as Smart City works and renovation of Kala Academy building.
The delegation led by its president and MLA Vijai Sardesai, brought to the notice of the Governor, mismanagement and substandard execution of infrastructure projects, as well as violations of citizens' rights and safety.
They raised the issue of failure of the Smart City project in Panjim. Despite an investment of over Rs 1,100 crore, the project had been plagued by delays and poor-quality workmanship, leading to severe flooding and infrastructural collapses.
The recent collapse of a concrete drainage system at Taad-Maad near Caculo Mall, attributed to substandard workmanship and negligence, exemplifies the severity of the problem. The GFP demanded a criminal probe, and an FIR against the contractor responsible, urging immediate and decisive action to prevent further damage, and to ensure public safety.
Another issue raised was the renovation scandal of the Kala Academy, Goa's premier arts and culture institution. The renovations, which cost approximately Rs 80 crore, had been marred by shoddy workmanship and lack of oversight, leading to incidents such as a leaking roof during a performance and frequent power failures. The GFP had exposed this scam and called for those responsible to be held accountable for the misuse of public funds.
The GFP has called for an independent audit of the Smart City projects and Kala Academy renovations.
The delegation expressed grave concern over recent amendments to the State's excise laws, allowing new bars and liquor stores to operate within 100 metres of educational and religious institutions at twice the usual licence fee. This policy, they argue, prioritises revenue generation over the well-being and moral fabric of society, potentially increasing the risk of underage drinking and creating an unsafe environment for students and communities.