The Goa Youth Congress on Wednesday evening called for immediate government action to revive the long-abandoned Zuari Nagar Market Complex, which has remained unused for nearly a decade.
Addressing media at the site, Goa Youth Congress Working President Mahesh Nadar, along with local youth and residents, criticised the government's inaction and demanded a clear timeline for the project's completion.
Nadar recalled the origins of the project, stating, “People are aware of the history of this market. It was a vision of former Cortalim MLA late Matanhy Saldanha to bring structured development and provide proper facilities for vendors in Zuari Nagar. Sadly, despite the vision and resources allocated, the market complex has never been used.”
He pointed out that the foundation stone for the market was laid by former Chief Minister late Manohar Parrikar in 2013 and efforts to push the project forward were taken up by then MLA Alina Saldanha.
“However, work came to a halt in 2016, and since then, the building has been lying in a completely abandoned state,” said Nadar.
Expressing frustration over government negligence, he added, “The government has no right to waste taxpayers’ money like this. Crores of rupees were spent, and yet the structure is being used by miscreants and anti-social elements. People are consuming alcohol and harmful substances here, increasing the crime rate and putting residents at risk.”
Nadar also questioned the role of current MLA Anton Vas, who had extended support to the BJP after being elected as an independent.
“Even after getting the Chief Minister to inspect the site, nothing has moved forward in the last three years. The public is now wondering if the government is even taking Anton Vas seriously.”
He further demanded that the government disclose how much money was spent on the incomplete project and what future plans exist.
“We want clarity—will this market be completed or not? There is no health centre for residents, no ground for youth, and even basic facilities are missing,” Nadar said.
Calling for police patrolling or sealing of the premises to prevent misuse, Nadar demanded the appointment of a special committee to assess and restart the project.
“We will pursue this issue till the end. The Congress will keep taking follow-ups, mobilise locals, submit memorandums, and even protest if necessary to ensure the market project sees the light of day.”
