The Action Committee has been campaigning for the bypass for 15 years and has consistently pursued the matter through representations to the authorities. The Panchayat has now taken up the issue again, although residents have questioned the motives of some members. Earlier, the Government and NHAI had prepared an alternative plan, with late Manohar Parrikar flagging three possible routes. The proposal was considered economically feasible and cost-effective. The suggested route passes through the village, where a service road already exists along the canal, allowing future expansion without damaging structures or displacing residents. None of the residents was asked to donate land.
Residents have raised concerns about noise pollution, land acquisition and shifting electricity, water and telephone lines if the existing route is expanded. They fear prolonged construction could disrupt traffic. Land acquisition beyond Dandeavaddo remains incomplete, while the accident-prone Canacona stretch needs priority. Residents have offered to return the compensation received with interest. They oppose a four-lane flyover and urge the Government to consider a bypass or four-lane road without a flyover, defreeze the 45-metre corridor and reconsider the proposal.
Nelson Lopes, Chinchinim
