MAPUSA
Former Tivim MLA Kiran Kandolkar has called on the government to take immediate action to construct a new bridge linking Zuvem Island in Nadora to the mainland of Bardez.
The existing bridge has been closed to vehicular traffic due to its deteriorating condition, causing significant hardship for the 250 residents living on the island.
Kandolkar highlighted the difficulties the villagers are facing due to the bridge closure.
"Children will have trouble attending school on time, and in case of a medical emergency, it will be extremely difficult to bring an ambulance to the island. Even basic necessities, such as gas cylinder delivery, will be impacted as vehicles cannot pass over the bridge," he said.
Kandolkar also disclosed that the bridge's damage was caused by a contractor who, while working on a retaining wall on the opposite side, allowed loaded vehicles to pass over the bridge, leading to its deterioration.
Recalling his efforts in 2015, Kandolkar shared that during his tenure as MLA, he had proposed the construction of a new bridge, which was estimated to cost around Rs 10 crore.
"The new bridge would allow ambulances, fire brigades, and gas cylinder vehicles to pass through, and local residents would be able to use their vehicles freely," he explained.
However, following the change in government in 2017, the new local MLA, Nilkan Halarnkar, did not pursue the project further.
"My appeal to the government is to put politics aside and prioritize the construction of the bridge in the interest of the people," Kandolkar added.
Local residents have also expressed their frustration over the lack of action.
Gaurish Halarnkar, a resident of Zuvem Island, mentioned that several letters were sent to the local MLA and relevant authorities, but there has been no response.
Another resident, Shailesh Agarwadekar, noted the difficulties faced by the community, especially at night, and appealed to the government to take swift action to address the issue.
