Tension prevailed in Curchorem on Friday when a group of youth staged a road blockade in protest, after being dissatisfied over police investigations regarding a fatal mishap.
Jesval Diniz (19) from Pontemol had died of injuries after being struck by a tipper truck transporting laterite stones near Ravindra Bhavan on April 19.
The incident triggered widespread outrage after reports surfaced that the vehicle involved in the accident had been released by the police, prompting serious concerns among locals and the victim’s family regarding its legality, permit compliance, and whether proper procedures were followed.
The handling of the case came under scrutiny, with residents alleging lapses in enforcement.
Expressing dissatisfaction over the police investigation, a group of youth staged a road blockade, disrupting traffic and creating a tense atmosphere in the area.
Protesters confronted police officials, demanding accountability and a transparent probe into the circumstances surrounding the fatal mishap.
The agitating youth questioned who should be held responsible for the tragedy, directing criticism at various authorities including the government, the Public Works Department, the police, and the local MLA.
Locals also drew attention to frequent traffic and safety violations, alleging that trucks carrying laterite stones often ply recklessly, at times in the wrong direction, and without basic safety measures such as proper lighting or radium reflectors.
According to residents, such negligence, especially during late hours, has made the roads unsafe for pedestrians and commuters.
Voicing strong resentment, a protester remarked that if such “development” leads to the loss of young lives, it warrants serious reconsideration.
The agitation reflected growing anger among citizens over what they described as unchecked and hazardous transport activities and the lack of strict enforcement.
The agitators further questioned how such ongoing work was permitted without the deployment of guards at the site. The road blockade was later cleared following the intervention of police officials, restoring traffic movement in the area.
