With concerns raised in many quarters over the redevelopment of the iconic Margao bus stand, PWD Minister Digambar Kamat on Wednesday said the redevelopment plan for the old Margao bus stand will be presented to the people of Margao after it is prepared by the Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation (GSIDC).
At the same time, Kamat made it clear that the iconic old bus stand, in its present form, will no longer exist at the site. His remarks also indicated that the prime real estate could be utilized for the rehabilitation of gadda traders.
Although the Minister maintained that he was not fully aware of the details of the proposed plan, he said efforts would be made to retain some parking space within the sprawling bus stand premises.
Reiterating his support for the gadda traders, Kamat described them, along with motorcycle and rickshaw pilots, as his “brand ambassadors.” “No injustice will be done to the gadda traders. They have been my brand ambassadors along with rickshaw and motorcycle pilots. Digambar Kamat has always fought for the cause of the gadda traders. When they were first displaced in 1997 following a High Court order, I was the first MLA to address a public meeting at Lohia Maidan demanding justice for them. They have supported me over the years, and I am committed to protecting their interests,” he said.
When asked specifically whether parking facilities would be retained within the old bus stand complex, Kamat said that some parking space could be accommodated in the redevelopment plan.
His statement has, however, raised questions over whether the entire old bus stand area will be earmarked for the rehabilitation of gadda traders and fast-food kiosks. The issue assumes significance as visitors to the Margao Police Station, South Goa district police headquarters, Margao traffic cell, Gomant Vidya Niketan, the post office, the Old Collectorate building, the Municipal Garden, and several educational institutions in the city continue to face an acute shortage of parking space.
Kamat made the remarks after a delegation of gadda traders met him on Wednesday to seek information on the proposed GSIDC redevelopment plan.
“A proposal under a Central government scheme has suggested setting up a food court at the site, and officials inspected the area last week. I have not yet had an opportunity to discuss the proposal with them. However, I want to make it clear that no injustice will be meted out to the gadda traders,” Kamat added.
The redevelopment of the old Margao bus stand is expected to generate considerable public interest, particularly over the competing demands of trader rehabilitation, parking infrastructure, and the future use of one of the town’s most valuable public spaces.
