CHINCHINIM: Villagers of Dandewado-Chinchinim on Wednesday stopped work related to the proposed expansion of NH66, demanding clarity on the road alignment and a bypass through the densely populated village.
Cruz Silva, along with local residents and concerned panchayat members, was present at the site and extended support to the villagers.
Silva said residents have the right to know the exact alignment, scope of the project and its likely impact before any work begins. He urged the authorities to make a detailed presentation to the affected villagers.
“The villagers have a right to know what is being proposed in their area. A proper presentation must be made before any work is allowed to proceed,” Silva said.
The residents clarified that they are not opposed to the development or expansion of NH66, but want the road to be diverted through a suitable alignment so that the densely inhabited portion of Dandewado can be bypassed.
According to the villagers, the PWD had earlier assured them that their concerns would be heard and that a presentation on the proposed expansion would be conducted. However, they claimed that no such presentation has been held despite repeated requests.
Silva also questioned whether the plan shown to the villagers represents the final alignment. He said authorities must clearly explain the proposal and its impact before proceeding with the project.
Following the protest, villagers stopped work on the concerned stretch of NH66 and demanded that no work be undertaken in the portion falling within the Velim constituency until their concerns are addressed.
The villagers criticised the government and PWD authorities for allegedly ignoring their repeated demands and maintained that development projects affecting local communities must be carried out only after proper consultation.
Silva called for an immediate meeting involving government officials, local representatives and affected residents to find a solution to the issue.
