PONDA: Welcoming the proposal to create a third district in Goa, Ponda MLA Ravi Naik called for its creation at the earliest as, he said, “it will lead to development and welfare of the people of backward talukas.”
While talukas such as Dharbandora, Sattari and Ponda would form parts of the third district, Ravi suggested that even Sanquelim area of Bicholim taluka can be added to the third district as it is close to Ponda where the headquarters is expected to be set up.
The creation of a third district was announced by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant in Dharbandora, few days ago.
He said that he has even indentified a site for building the District headquarters building at Ponda near Menezes Factory at Bethora, which has NH bypass access that would make it easier for people to visit it and would not be required to travel to Panjim and Margao.
He explained the various benefits to ST, SC and other rural and backward population. Pointing out that it will reduce the time and expenditure of citizens in government offices, Ravi Naik added that he had been dreaming about the formation of the third district since he was the Chief Minister. He felt that this move would also help the areas, which have otherwise been lagging behind in development compared to other parts of Goa.
“After the third district, people will get a separate district court, Superintendent of Police, Collector’s office as well central government’s funds for development of infrastructure like waste treatment plants or bringing in industries. Further if the area of administration is small, it will ensure quick implementation of welfare schemes and projects,” said Naik.
He also referred to how the State of Telangana had created 23 near districts, which had seen phenomenal growth. He also pointed out that Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal had created three and two more districts, respectively.