Need single window system to save on time: de Souza

Ajit john

ajit@herald-goa.com 

PANJIM: A veteran in the construction industry he decided to venture out on his own four years ago and is working at developing a niche for himself in the industry.  Judas Anacleto de Souza of A and A Builders based in Vasco is one of the many small builders in the state who operate with  varying degrees of success given the politics that surround the purchase and of land and the construction of residential apartments.

Herald: Do you focus on residential complexes or you build commercial when the opportunity presents itself?

Judas de Souza: I focus only on residential complexes. Constructing a commercial complex involves a lot of money which I don’t have. I am a small builder in business for four years. I have 21 years experience given that I used to work with another construction company earlier.  In these four years I have constructed three buildings and six bungalows.

Herald: Is there an area where you focus or you look for properties in any part of the state?

JDS: I operate in Vasco, Chicalim, Dabolim  and Loutolim essentially. My operations are small which means I don’t have staff. I have to oversee the operations at the sight which also explains that I focus on one project at a time. I have to be present at the site  ensure that work is as per the standards I want it to be then go to the office and complete all the paper work.

Herald: As a small time builder what are the kinds of problems you face everyday?

JDS: The cost of raw materials in Goa has increased and it keeps increasing , there are certain taxes in the state that are not helpful, the stamp duty then there are the objections one has to learn to handle from the residents in areas where projects are being undertaken. It happens every time in Goa. For a small time builder like me delays can cause serious problems in completing the projects on time.

Herald: What project are you involved in right now?

JDS: I am currently working on a bungalow, it is a contract from another party.   It is for a person who is based in Dubai.

Herald: What in your estimation is the cost of construction per metre ?

JDS: It is anywhere between Rs 22,000 and 25,000 per square metre. It is expensive in Goa like I said but then my cost is no different from the others in the market.

Herald: What would you like the government to do to make it easier for you to conduct business?

JDS: It is important to have a single window system, today one has to go to various departments and it takes a lot of time delaying the project. I just want them to do it and thats all i am asking.

Herald: Where do you see this market in five years?

JDS: It will be a market which will flow along without any great upheaval , I think the dramatic increase in land prices may not happen in the future. We will see how it comes along.