Goa, May 28 -- Goa Forward Party leader Vijai Sardesai has welcomed Chief Minister Pramod Sawant's directive to the GSIDC to repaint the newly constructed wholesale fish market in Margao with a traditional Goan theme, following sustained objections over its design and cost escalation.

Originally tendered at Rs.13.5 crore, the project's cost reportedly ballooned to Rs.32 crore. Sardesai said he had continuously raised concerns over the inflated cost and criticized the wall paintings, which he felt lacked the essence of Goan culture.

"I had clearly warned that unless the artwork was redone to reflect Goan identity, we would not allow the market to open - or we would repaint it ourselves at our own expense," Sardesai stated. He added that ...