Residents oppose flyover, cite safety, pollution and years of neglect
The survey undertaken by the PWD (National Highways) on the Navelim–Cuncolim stretch of NH-66 ahead of four-laning work. The Dandeavaddo stretch of NH-66, where residents are waging a decade-and-a-half-old battle for a road bypass instead of a flyover.
MARGAO
Even as the PWD (National Highways) has commenced a survey ahead of the proposed four-laning of NH-66 between Navelim and Cuncolim, residents of Chinchinim have once again revived their long-pending demand for a road bypass instead of a flyover at Dandeavaddo.
The Chinchinim-Deussua Village Panchayat, along with MLA Cruz Silva and local residents, have collectively reiterated its strong opposition to the proposed elevated road, renewing its demand for the long-awaited NH-66 Dandeavaddo bypass.
Residents have objected to the ongoing survey work, claiming it is being carried out without their consent, despite their sustained agitation over the past 15 years in favour of a bypass.
Chinchinim Sarpanch Frank Viegas, who questioned the survey personnel at the Dandeavaddo stretch on Saturday told the media that the people of Chinchinim have been living under the shadow of an ever-growing traffic menace over the years. “The existing NH-66 alignment has turned the village roads into a corridor of heavy vehicles, bringing with it noise, dust, pollution, and constant danger to schoolchildren, pedestrians, and the elderly. Families living along the stretch have seen their daily peace shattered and their health affected. The community has repeatedly cried out for relief, making the Dandeavaddo bypass their long-standing and rightful demand,” he said.
While the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) has considered an elevated road as a possible option, he said the villagers and the panchayat have strongly opposed this plan, fearing its devastating impact on the very heart of Chinchinim. “An elevated road will destroy the character of the village, and continue to expose residents to pollution and safety hazards. Far from being a solution, such a project would deepen the problems the people have endured for decades,” he added.
In this respect, a delegation of residents with the backing of the Chinchinim Panchayat had a couple of months ago urged the PWD Minister Digambar Kamat to consider the Dandeavaddo bypass to protect lives, ease congestion and for future planning which will give the people of Chinchinim the relief they have fought for across generations.
The sarpanch recalled that Chief Minister Pramod Sawant had assured the residents of Dandeavaddo to examine their demand and consider the matter for necessary action. “Though the assurance was conditional, it has rekindled hope among the people of Chinchinim, who now look to the State government with great expectation and urgency. The panchayat has pledged to remain steadfast with its people in pressing the authorities until justice is delivered,” Viegas said.
