VASCO
Mormugao Municipal Council (MMC) councillors, supported by local residents, on Wednesday reiterated their strong opposition to the proposed Formula 4 racing event at Sada, stating that the densely populated area is unfit for a high-speed motorsport.
At a news conference, they clarified that they were not against hosting an international racing event in Goa but objected to its proposed venue in Mormugao. They urged authorities to cancel or shift the event to a safer, more suitable location.
Former councillor Shekar Khadapkar raised concerns about public safety, environmental impact, and lack of transparency. “This Formula 4 is not a prestigious event as projected. It’s only a stepping stone for new drivers. We don’t even know the organisers, and the MMC has no clarity on permissions. There is fear among Bogda residents,” he said.
Khadapkar said the event lacks the necessary permissions from departments including Sports, Tourism, Transport, Police, Traffic Cell, Home, and the Goa State Pollution Control Board. He stressed that such approvals must be obtained before considering the race.
He also warned that similar events abroad often have links to gambling. “We must ensure there are no casino or money-making links under the guise of promoting sports. The government must first seek residents’ consent,” he said.
Khadapkar added that Bogda’s narrow, residential roads are unsafe for cars speeding up to 250 km/h. “This is not a playground but a locality with schools, temples, and hundreds of homes. Instead of spending taxpayers’ money on this race, funds should go towards civic projects like the garbage site, swimming pool, and other pending works,” he said.
Councillor and former MMC chairperson Leo Rodrigues said the issue would be discussed at the next council meeting. “The MMC hasn’t granted any permission for this event. We are not against Formula racing but cannot support Sada as the venue. The MLA should have consulted the people first,” he said.
Rodrigues alleged that contractors had already begun groundwork without the council’s knowledge. MMC Vice Chairperson Ramchandra Kamat, Councillor Manjusha Pilankar, and residents also opposed the event, saying the council will take a collective stand to protect residents’ interests.
