Team Goemkarponn
MARGAO: Madganvcho Awaaz & Youth Leader Prabhav Naik has urged the Government to learn from past experiences as Margao MLA turned Captain of Ports Minister Digambar Kamat, along with his family members, is on an inspection tour of the Kochi Water Metro.
Prabhav Naik recalled that a similar inspection tour to Kochi was undertaken by a former River Navigation Minister to study the Solar Ferry Boat project. Despite adverse observations made by the Captain of Ports, the project was pursued, only to see the ₹3.97 crore Solar Ferry Boat project eventually scrapped.
Naik questioned the presence of Digambar Kamat’s son and another family member on the official inspection tour. He asked in what official capacity they are accompanying the Minister and whether their travel, accommodation and other related expenses are being borne by the Government or met from personal funds. He said complete transparency on the matter is essential.
Prabhav Naik said the recent series of project announcements by Digambar Kamat, including the proposed Rs. 7 crore illumination project for Margao and now the Kochi Water Metro visit, raises legitimate public questions. He said the manner in which these expensive projects are being pursued in the final months of his political career creates a perception that the focus is on facilitating commissions rather than prioritising the genuine needs of Goa.
“Goa’s waterways have unique geographical, tidal and operational conditions that differ significantly from those in Kerala. Projects cannot simply be replicated without a comprehensive assessment of their suitability for Goa”, Prabhav Naik stated.
Naik urged the Government to place public interest above publicity and ensure that all future water transport initiatives are guided by expert opinion, transparency and lessons from past experiences, so that taxpayers are not burdened with another costly mistake.
