Open defecation-free Goa by Gandhi Jayanti 2019: Governor

Panaji, March 23 (IANS) Goa Governor Mridula Sinha on Thursday said that by October 2, 2019, when the country celebrates Mahatma Gandhi's 150th birth anniversary, Goa may well see a complete end to open defecation.

In her address to the State Legislative Assembly, Sinha also unveiled a vision for 24x7 power for the coastal state as well as housing for all.

"Poor sanitation further weakens the economic wherewithal of a poor household. My government is committed to eliminate open defecation in Goa by October 2, 2019 -- the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, which is one of the key aims of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan movement launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi two years ago," Sinha said.

"Housing shall be the mantra of my government. A house is a dream of every individual and it is shameful for any society that its people are still deprived of this basic necessity. My government will formulate a policy and draw a plan to implement this policy to provide shelter for everyone in the State of Goa," she added.

Sinha also said that the BJP-led coalition government in Goa will work towards drawing up a comprehensive transport and mobility plan for the coastal state.

"A multi-mode transport system will be developed with rapid transport facilities. My government will make utmost use of alternative transport like water transport. And special transport facilities will be provided to tourists, students and senior citizens," she said.

"In order to create a proper network of roads throughout the state for utmost mobility, my government is committed to constructing roads in every village and locality where there is a need," she added.