Team Herald
PONDA: South Goa MP Captain Viriato Fernandes assured that the Ponda Sub-District Hospital will be upgraded and provided with a CT scan machine soon.
During a visit to Sarvajanik Ganesh Mandals in Ponda, the Member of Parliament in response to media inquiries about his promise during the Lok Sabha election campaign to upgrade the Ponda Sub-District Hospital and provide a CT scan machine, assured that he has not forgotten his commitment. He stated that efforts are already underway to secure a CT scan machine for the hospital through the Members of Parliament Local Area Development (MPLAD) scheme.
Emphasizing the importance of health, he remarked, “Health is wealth. While the government focuses on constructing roads, highways, and bridges, it must also prioritize health facilities for the people. Without health, development efforts are meaningless.”
The MP announced plans to visit the Ponda Sub-District Hospital soon to assess its specific needs. He highlighted that before the CT scan machine can be installed, there is a pressing need for technical staff, doctors, and radiologists, and he intends to collaborate with the State government to address this issue.
He further noted that as the hospital project progresses, plans for the necessary staffing, including doctors and technicians, are also in place. “If the government claims it has no money, then where is the taxpayers’ money going?” he questioned.
The MP also expressed concern over the current staffing shortages in Goa, which have placed undue stress on hospital personnel, leading to health issues such as high blood pressure among staff. He pledged to make maximum use of MPLAD funds to enhance healthcare facilities for the people of South Goa, including the provision of fully equipped ambulances.
Poor road conditions due to corruption: Viriato
PONDA: South Goa MP Captain Viriato Fernandes has blamed corruption being the source of the poor road conditions in the State and demanded action against corrupt politicians. He voiced serious concerns regarding the deteriorating state of newly tarred roads in Goa, which have been damaged by rain.
He criticized the current road construction system, alleging that it has become a profitable venture for Ministers and MLAs, with taxpayer money being misappropriated. He pointed out that when proper standards are followed, roads can last for ten to fifteen years, but the reality is different due to demands for kickbacks from contractors.
The leader questioned how contractors can maintain quality when they are pressured to pay commissions of 20 to 30 per cent. He called for accountability, stating that corrupt politicians should face legal consequences for poor road conditions. He lamented the misuse of taxpayer funds, likening it to a leech draining blood.
Drawing a comparison to Singapore’s military intervention against corruption, he urged for similar actions in Goa and called for a vigilance inquiry into the state of roads. He also highlighted the need for relief measures amid rising inflation, expressing concern for struggling citizens.