Water Resources Minister Subhash Shirodkar found only two employees present during a surprise inspection of the Water Resources Department (WRD) office in Bicholim at 9.30 am, raising concerns over staff punctuality and discipline in government offices.

Expressing displeasure over the absence of staff, Shirodkar said declining work culture and delays in public services were affecting development and causing inconvenience to citizens.

He stressed that government employees must adhere to office timings and maintain discipline, warning that negligence in official duties would not be tolerated.

The minister said punctuality and accountability must be ensured across government departments to improve public service delivery.