RGP chief blasts MLA over Zuvem footbridge neglect

THE GOAN NETWORK MAPUSA | JULY 17, 2025, 12:57 AM IST

Revolutionary Goans Party (RGP) President Manoj Parab has launched a scathing attack on local MLA and Minister Nilkanth Halarnkar over the continued closure and neglect of the vital Zuvem footbridge, which connects over 300 island residents to the mainland.

Parab accused the minister of "hiding" from public scrutiny and ignoring the long-standing grievances of Zuvem residents.

“People are facing immense hardship due to the bridge closure, and the local MLA is nowhere to be seen. He refuses to face the people, and I don’t know if it’s because I’ve taken up the issue recently,” Parab said, adding that villagers have been raising the demand for repairs for over a decade.

Parab questioned Halarnkar’s inaction during his two terms as MLA.

“You’ve been MLA for the last eight years. Why has nothing been done so far? The residents are tired of false assurances,” he said.

According to the RGP chief, there are indications that the government may attempt a temporary fix using chemicals to make the bridge passable again – a move he strongly criticised.

“The government must come out with a proper safety report before opening the bridge. People’s lives are at stake,” he cautioned.

He cited recent incidents of bridge collapses in Pune and Gujarat, warning that Goa could witness a similar tragedy if safety is compromised.

“God forbid, if something happens here, will the MLA hand out cheques to the families of the victims?” he asked.

Parab also warned that his party would compel the MLA to visit the site and face the people.

“He cannot hide for long. People are fed up with his laziness and incompetence. They will give him a befitting reply in the next Assembly elections,” he declared.

The issue of the Zuvem footbridge, which has been in a state of disrepair for several years, has drawn increasing public attention in recent weeks.

A few days ago, residents and RGP activists staged protests and questioned the MLA’s continued silence on the matter.

Last Sunday, during a Gram Sabha meeting, villagers passed a unanimous resolution demanding immediate repairs to the existing footbridge and called for the construction of a new motorable bridge to ensure long-term connectivity.

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