MARGAO
Velim MLA Cruz Silva has demanded that the authorities immediately convene a joint meeting with National Highway authorities, the Goa PWD, local representatives and residents of Dandeavaddo-Chinchinim to resolve the demand for diverting the proposed NH66 expansion outside the village. He warned that failure to address the issue would leave the people with no option but to take to the streets.
Silva said residents are not opposed to the expansion of National Highway 66 or to development, but strongly object to the proposed alignment passing through the inhabited areas of Dandeavaddo. He maintained that the highway should be realigned along an alternative route outside the village to protect homes, properties and residents’ safety.
Silva pointed out that the demand for diversion is not new and recalled that, before 2010, the government had agreed to divert the National Highway along an alternative alignment. He questioned why that earlier decision and the concerns of the local community were not being adequately considered while proceeding with the present expansion plans.
The MLA reiterated that the Comunidade NOC for the proposed alternative route had already been obtained and submitted to the PWD. He said the availability of an alternative alignment outside the village made it necessary for the authorities to sit across the table with the local community and seriously examine the proposal.
He also reiterated residents’ concerns over soil testing being carried out in the area. Locals have reportedly complained of vibrations from heavy machinery and cracks appearing in some houses during the testing. Silva demanded that the affected structures be inspected and the concerns properly assessed before further work is undertaken.
Silva said development cannot be imposed at the cost of residents’ safety and security. He warned that if the authorities fail to convene the joint meeting and resolve the diversion issue, people from the affected villages would be compelled to launch a democratic protest against the proposed alignment.
