PONDA
Emphasizing the need for the Rachol-Shiroda bridge to promote economic growth, Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar has to expedite the land acquisition process.
Speaking at the annual day programme of Shri Laxminarayan Temple at Karai-Shiroda by Vaishya Samaj, Parsekar said there is a need to link Rachol and Shiroda for business growth, which would help people of both villages.
“But first, there is a need to bridge the understanding between both villages. This can solve many problems,” said Parsekar, mindful of the opposition from residents of Rachol to the project.
Following strong opposition from farmers of Rachol towards the proposed bridge, Industries Minister Mahadev Naik in a programme at Margao had clarified that land belonging to farmers from Rachol would not be utilized for the purpose. Naik had also assured that commercial vehicles would not be allowed to ply on the bridge.
Congress MLA Alexio Reginaldo Lourenco and the Rachol villagers have been opposing the bridge on grounds that it would damage cultivable land.
Speaking further, Parsekar said, “if this bridge becomes a reality, people from both sides will benefit. It will cut distance and reduce travel time between Margao and Shiroda.”
Speaking on the occasion, Mahadev Naik said he was committed to the development of Shiroda constituency.
“I want to see Shiroda developed in all areas. To make jobs available in the area, I have invited industries here. Many people will get jobs in ready made garment industries coming up here,” he assured.
He said the construction of a government hospital in Shiroda is in its last stage of completion and it will help people from Shiroda constituency.
“People go to the GMC, Hospicio in Margao or SDH at Ponda. Once the hospital facility starts here, then it will save their time and money,” Naik said. Sandeep Raikar of Vaishya Samaj and others were present on the occasion.
