the goan I network
MARGAO
Benaulim MLA Churchill Alemao’s stand that he would ensure the completion of the last of his three dream bridges over River Sal, the Navelim-Benaulim bridge, is not without any basis.
The Public Works Department has asked a consultant to prepare fresh estimates to complete the balance portion of the Navelim-Benaulim bridge at Sinquetim, even as the contractor had dragged the government for damages for abandoning the construction of the bridge midway.
A senior PWD officer told The Goan that the department has asked a consultant to prepare estimates for the completion of the balance portion of bridge at the earliest. In fact, the official pointed out that the PWD has communicated to the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) about its intention to complete the remaining work on the bridge.
Sources said the contractor, who was entrusted with the construction of the bridge, has dragged the government to court for damages since the previous government had stopped the work.
It may be recalled that then MLAs representing Navelim and Benaulim constituencies, Avertano Furtado and Caitu Silva respectively had made a strong case against the bridge, leaving no option for then Chief Manohar Parrikar to order the contractor to stop the work.
“We have asked the consultant to prepare the estimates for completing balance portion of the bridge. Once the estimates are ready, it is for the government to take a call when to take up the work,” the PWD official said, adding that the PAC has been already informed about the government’s intention to complete the bridge work in all respects.
To a question, the PWD official said the PWD has contested the claim made by the contractor for damages, while declining to comment on the matter saying the issue is sub judice.
The Benaulim MLA had last week vowed to complete the bridge over River Sal, saying it will benefit people on both sides of the river.
