THE GOAN NETWORK
SANGUEM
Sanvordem MLA Ganesh Gaonkar on Monday visited the construction site of the Bhandara at Mirabag-Sanvordem, which has been opposed by residents in Falnem and Mirabag wards of Sanvordem panchayat, Soliem ward of Curchorem Cacora Municipal Council, and Mugoli ward of Uguem Panchayat.
During his site visit, MLA Gaonkar conveyed to the gathered villagers that discussions regarding their concerns had taken place with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, in collaboration with panchayat member Sanjay Naik.
He said the Chief Minister has requested a comprehensive report following an on-site assessment of the situation.
Gaonkar assured the villagers of his commitment to their cause, stating that he, along with Sanjay Naik and four representatives from the affected villages, would meet the chief minister to formally present their grievances.
He further clarified that the ultimate decision concerning the project's future lies with the chief minister.
However, villagers reiterated their unwavering opposition to the construction of the Bhandara.
They warned that if their concerns are not adequately addressed by the government within two days, they threatened to forcibly stop construction work.
This development follows a Gram Sabha on May 18, after which residents of Mirabag, Soliem, and Mugoli convened separate meetings within their respective villages.
In these meetings, they voiced strong objections to the project, primarily citing potential risks of flooding and anticipated damage to agricultural lands situated along the banks of the Zuari River.
