Goa Government Announces PWD to Oversee Sonsoddo Kabrastan Construction, 18-Month Timeline Established
In a significant development, the Goa government has officially informed the Bombay High Court that the construction of the kabrastan (burial ground) at Sonsoddo will now be undertaken through the Public Works Department (PWD), rather than the Goa State Urban Development Agency (GSUDA). This decision was communicated to the court on Friday, marking a pivotal shift in the project's management and execution strategy.
Advocate General Outlines Revised Construction Timeline and Process
Advocate General Devidas Pangam, representing the government, provided detailed insights into the revised plan during the court proceedings. He stated that the construction process is projected to take approximately 18 months to complete. However, this timeline is contingent upon the prior completion of several preparatory phases.
The initial phase involves the preparation of tender documents and other essential groundwork, which is estimated to require about 90 days. Following this preparatory stage, the actual physical construction of the burial ground will commence, with the full project expected to be finalized within the subsequent 18-month period.
Court Directs Progress Report Submission Amid Petitioner's Concerns
The Bombay High Court has taken a proactive stance by calling for a progress report to be submitted in July, ensuring ongoing oversight of the project's advancement. This directive comes in response to objections raised by the petitioner, who expressed dissatisfaction with the 18-month timeline, citing previous delays and multiple court orders that have been issued over time regarding the construction of the burial ground.
Historical Delays and Resolved Obstacles Explained
Advocate General Pangam elaborated on the historical challenges that have impeded the project's progress. He clarified that funds had been allocated and GSUDA was initially appointed to handle the construction. A consultant was also engaged to facilitate the process. However, the work encountered a significant obstacle when a chapel blocked access to the designated land, creating a major logistical hurdle.
This issue was ultimately resolved on February 2, after the church provided an alternative parcel of land and granted necessary access, Pangam explained. He emphasized that this resolution was a critical factor in the previous delays, as it required time to negotiate and finalize the land exchange agreement.
The government's assurance to the court underscores its commitment to advancing the Sonsoddo kabrastan project under the revised framework, with PWD now at the helm to ensure timely and efficient completion.
