VASCO
A group of locals on Friday implored the Chicalim Panchayat not to issue any NOC for double-tracking related works in the village, after accusing the Railways of attempting to carry out works in a surreptitious manner.
The residents, led by Captain Viriato Fernandes, met Sarpanch Seby Pereira and other panch members with their request and later claimed that the panchayat members had assured them that no NOC would be given for any double-tracking activity in the panchayat jurisdiction.
Later speaking to reporters, Capt Fernandes said the Railways has been trying to continue the double-tracking work without informing locals.
“The Railway Police Force (RPF) is being sent along with railway contractors and the RPF are usually armed to instil fear among locals. But people will not fall prey to such tactics and they have begun coming out in protest against these works.”
“While people from Velsao stopped the work on Thursday, people in Chandor also came out to stop the work. People are determined to save their villages and oppose destructive projects,” said Capt Fernandes.
He said a group of locals met the sarpanch and other members in the Chicalim panchayat and informed them that this is not about party politics but a fight by the people to save Goa.
“The sarpanch assured us that they would not grant any NOC for the double-tracking work. If all panchayats offer similar support to the locals, then no authority can do anything against the wishes of the people,” said Capt Fernandes.
