Vijai Sardesai Seeks Assembly Debate on Roads, Unemployment and Unplanned Development

Goa Khabar: Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai has urged Goa Legislative Assembly Speaker Dr. Ganesh Gaonkar to ensure adequate time during the forthcoming Assembly session for discussions on three major issues affecting the State — deteriorating road infrastructure, unemployment and carrying capacity amid unplanned development.

In a letter dated August 21, Sardesai requested that the Business Advisory Committee (BAC) allot sufficient time for a detailed discussion on these issues, describing them as matters of urgent public importance that concern the people and future of Goa.

Sardesai referred to the previous Assembly session held in March 2026, stating that the session was curtailed due to the Model Code of Conduct imposed in connection with the Ponda Assembly by-election. He pointed out that the Demands for Grants and the entire Budget for 2026-27 were passed without discussion.

He argued that the Legislature is the principal forum for scrutinising government policies, expenditure and decisions, and said that passing the Budget and Demands without discussion deprived elected representatives of an opportunity to debate, question and seek accountability from the government.

Roads a Serious Public Safety Concern

Highlighting the condition of roads across Goa, Sardesai said recurring potholes, inadequate maintenance and poor planning have become a serious public safety concern. He sought a discussion on the reasons behind the continuing deterioration of roads and the measures being taken by the government to address the problem.

House Must Discuss Goa’s Unemployment Crisis

The Fatorda MLA also raised concerns over employment opportunities for Goan youth. He called for a discussion on the government’s employment policies, recruitment mechanisms and job creation measures, as well as steps to ensure that Goan youth receive fair employment opportunities in their own State.

Carrying Capacity and Unplanned Development

The third issue raised by Sardesai concerns Goa’s carrying capacity and the impact of unplanned development. He said the unchecked pace of construction and development is putting unprecedented pressure on Goa’s land, water resources, roads, waste-management systems and other infrastructure.

According to Sardesai, the absence of a comprehensive carrying-capacity framework poses a threat to Goa’s environment, natural resources, identity and quality of life.

“These are State-wide issues which transcend political and constituency boundaries and require a discussion in the Assembly,” Sardesai stated in his letter, adding that the people of Goa deserve answers and a clear roadmap from the government.

He urged that adequate time be provided for meaningful legislative scrutiny during the forthcoming session and expressed hope that the Business Advisory Committee would consider his request in the spirit of parliamentary democracy and in the larger interest of Goa.