Team Goemkarponn
PORVORIM: Chief Minister Pramod Sawant today announced that Goa’s proposed third district will be named Kushavati, drawing inspiration from the Kushavati river that flows through all four talukas earmarked for the new district—Sanguem, Canacona, Quepem and Dharbandora.
Explaining the rationale behind the name, Sawant said Kushavati represents the region’s deep-rooted geographical legacy and cultural identity, as the river has historically sustained the people, ecology and livelihoods of these talukas.
He reiterated that Quepem will function as the headquarters of the proposed district.
The Chief Minister clarified that the formal creation of the district would take time as administrative structures are put in place. Until then, the South Goa Collector will continue to oversee the administration of the four talukas.
Addressing concerns over accessibility to Quepem, particularly from Canacona and Dharbandora, Sawant assured that connectivity would be strengthened.
He announced special bus services between Canacona and Quepem via the ghat section, along with plans to widen ghat roads to enable travel between Canacona and Quepem in about half an hour. A district road linking Dharbandora to Quepem and other road infrastructure projects are also on the anvil.
Sawant further stated that the government would seek additional central assistance to accelerate infrastructure development in the new district. He added that the proposed Kushavati district would be declared an Aspirational District, making it eligible for special central funding.
Across the country, aspirational districts have received around ₹15 crore each for focused development, particularly in infrastructure.
