Aldona : Emphasising the need for the self-generating model to ensure the sustainability of Pompurpa Spring, tourism minister Rohan Khaunte assured Aldona MLA Adv Carlos Alvares Ferreira to take up renovation and improvement of the popular tourist spot.
Khaunte along with Ferreira, panchayat members, and tourism officials inspected the spring on Monday.
The MLA said that there was a long-standing demand from locals as the spring was neglected.
“This spring is known for its medicinal properties and hence it is popular. However, locals often complain of unwanted activities by miscreants. The spring is in a dilapidated condition. We will put forth a proposal for improvement with renovation. Our tourism minister has promised he will do the work. We have inspected the area, and have seen how much area is available for taking up work and what can be done within the law. The minister has a positive intention and mindset and I believe he will do something good. He has a Midas touch,” he said.
Stating that the spring is popular as a picnic spot, Khaunte said that citizens using government facilities should act in a responsible manner.
“Pomburpa Spring is very popular among the people of Bardez. But it is in bad condition and needs improvement. GTDC had undertaken renovation works around 12 years ago, but now after the inspection, we feel it needs a lot of renovation. More importantly, we need a self-generating model to make it financially sustainable. This will ensure that the facility is maintained well. We also need a plan from the local panchayat, etc. I have asked the MLA to tell the panchayat to submit a proposal. I have instructed the consultant to identify shortcomings like lack of toilets, necessary infrastructure, changing rooms, children’s park, parking of vehicles, and other amenities. We will try to tender the work within 2 months after the consultant holds discussions with the MLA and other stakeholders,” he said.