PANJIM: Art and Culture Minister Govind Gaude who retained this portfolio has put the blame on the Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation (GSIDC) for maintenance-related problems that have risen in cultural institutions like Ravindra Bhavans amongst others. Incidentally GSIDC is headed by the Chief Minister.
He also added that 90% of Goa’s iconic Kala Academy complex that is undergoing repair work, is nearing completion with 90% of the works completed and that it is in its ‘finishing stages’ now and should be ready by August-September 2022. He said the Canacona Ravindra Bhavan should be ready by December.
While speaking to media persons at the Assembly, Gaude said the government has spent crores of rupees on Ravindra Bhavans, Kala Mandirs but felt the system needs to be changed as far as maintenance works of such facilities are concerned.
“The main issue is that the Art and Culture Department doesn’t have its own maintenance cell, which will be formed now. For example, the Sports Authority of Goa (SAG) has its own engineering section which looks after its sports infrastructure. We need someone who is there right from the time facility is constructed who will be available permanently to resolve issues like air conditioning, plumbing, electricity, etc,” said Gaude
“What happens now is GSIDC does the construction and then hands over these projects to us for our possession but they are not available for maintenance-related works even though they would be in the best position to resolve these issues. They have a clause that says they will do maintenance work only if the cost is above Rs 10 crore otherwise it has to be done by PWD. That is not fair,” Gaude added.
When asked about why Bardez doesn’t have a Ravindra Bhavan, Gaude said land of 29,000 square metres had been acquired but that the Mapusa MLA Joshua D’Souza is trying to find an amicable solution with the tenants. “Once that is done, we can start work tomorrow. The design is ready,” Gaude added.
He further assured to offer all forms of support including financial to artistes and their initiatives.
