Bhoma NH expansion: Goa CM rules out bypass.

PORVORIM: Chief Minister Pramod Sawant on Monday assured the people of Bhoma that the proposed highway project will not endanger the village temple, houses, or the pond, addressing concerns that had sparked unrest among residents in recent days.Speaking after an on-site presentation of the highway alignment to the villagers, Sawant said, “The people of Bhoma have been misled by someone. The temple, most houses, and the village pond are completely safe. Only four houses need to be removed for the project, and the government will provide land and assistance to rebuild for those affected.”He further added that a few roadside shops would also need to be shifted, and arrangements are being made to relocate them to alternative locations.The Chief Minister emphasized that the presentation held today helped clear doubts among the locals, and that villagers are now satisfied with the clarity provided by the government.The statement comes after several Bhoma residents raised objections and demanded transparency regarding the bypass alignment, accusing the authorities of withholding exact details for over two years.“People had many concerns, mostly due to lack of clarity. But after today’s presentation, many villagers expressed satisfaction and understood that the project does not threaten their homes or heritage,” the Chief Minister added.The CM’s assurance comes after intensifying demands from Bhoma locals for transparency. Residents had earlier accused PWD officials of withholding details for over two years, fueling distrust and speculation. Many had insisted that only after engineers physically marked the road on the ground would they believe the government’s intentions.The highway project, which has faced delays and opposition, is part of broader infrastructural development plans aimed at improving traffic flow and connectivity in North Goa. However, concerns over land acquisition, displacement, and preservation of community spaces have kept tensions high in Bhoma and surrounding areas.Sawant reiterated that the government is open to dialogue and engagement, and that efforts will continue to minimize disruption to local communities. “Development should go hand in hand with people’s trust and well-being. We will ensure this project reflects that balance,” he said.