Sanguem MLA and minister Subhash Phal Dessai on Friday assured that the Kunbi handloom crafts village being developed near the Selaulim dam in Sanguem will be completed within three months. Work on the project had come to a complete standstill in recent weeks due to unpaid contractor bills and an ensuing funds crunch.
Contractor’s Financial Strain
“The contractor had exhausted all his financial resources, as some of his bills had not been cleared. I have spoken to the chief minister, who has assured that the necessary funds will be provided to complete the project. Once funds are made available, the project should be completed within three months,” Phal Dessai said.
Progress Review
The minister stated that he has been reviewing the project’s progress every 15 days. He also added that 90% of the work — including all civil works, compound walls, and roads — is completed. What remains are the internal finishing touches such as painting and other decorative elements.
Project Objectives
The Kunbi handloom crafts village project aims to establish permanent infrastructure and marketing facilities for artisans and handloom weavers of the Gawda, Kunbi, and Velip communities, enabling them to sell their products throughout the year. It also envisions eco-tourism facilities and employment generation for the local population in the form of guides, artisans, homestay operators, and other such opportunities.
Implementation and Cost
Implemented by the Goa Handicrafts, Rural and Small Scale Industries Development Corporation (GHRSSIDC) under the National Handicrafts Development Programme (NHDP), the project has been developed at a cost of Rs 12.7 crore. Of this, the Union Ministry of Textiles has committed Rs 10 crore — out of which Rs 5 crore has been released so far. The state government has sanctioned and released its share of Rs 2.7 crore. Work for the project officially commenced on May 20, 2024.
Additional Costs and Delays
Sources associated with the project revealed that its costs escalated soon after Chief Minister Pramod Sawant suggested a few additions and modifications during his last visit to the site. As a result, this added further strain on the already stretched project, and work is still in progress and yet to be fully completed.
