PANJIM: With large number of migrant labour force currently being left without work in Goa, due to the ongoing nationwide lockdown, the Directorate of Panchayat has instructed the panchayats to employ them for pre-monsoon works.
In a circular issued to all the sarpanchas and panchayat secretaries, Panchayat Director Narayan Gad has also instructed the panchayats to employ the migrant workers for Swatchha Bharat Mission.
The panchayats are directed to identify such labourers, and issue them transit or work permit for execution of pre-monsoon work.
“In view of the outbreak of COVID-19, infectious disease, the government has decided lockdown in the State and from time to time people are advised to remain at home,” Gad said in the circular.
He said that being a touristic State, a lot of migrant labourers from other States are residing in Goa, who were mostly engaged in construction and tourism related activities. “These are daily wage workers who are now without any work,” Gad said.
“The responsibility of feeding these migrant labourers is being shouldered by the State government by providing them food through various Self Help Groups,” he added.
“However, in order to keep these migrant labourers engaged, the panchayats may employ them for pre-monsoon works such as cleaning of drains, nullahs, gutters, wells, springs, etc and also Swatchha Bharat Mission by engaging them on daily wages,” the Director said.
As per government record, there is nearly one lakh migrant labour force, which is stuck in Goa due to the lockdown. Government has put in place shelter homes for these people, where food and other facilities are provided to them daily.
