Navelim forum opposes NH widening to 60 meters
HERALD REPORTER
MARGAO, OCT 25
The Navelim Civic and Consumer Forum has unanimously resolved to oppose the widening of the existing NH-17 to 60 meters, plus setbacks, which the Centre is trying to impose on the people of Goa, by using threats of diverting the highway.
Members said the destruction of Goa which was started by Konkan Railway will be completed by this Super Expressway which the Central Government is keen to take through the heart of Goa.
They pointed out that the existing Highway could be widened to double lane with a width of 25 to 30 mts, which is sufficient for Goans. “No doubt, Super Expressways are required, but you can not pass them through our peaceful towns and villages”, members said, while regretting that this is one more attempt by the Indian government to destroy the rich and diverse cultural heritage of Goa and amalgamate it into the Indian system.
They said the route is supposed to be handed over to a private firm on BOOT basis which entail Goans to pay Toll fee everytime they use the road.
Forum Secretary Joseph Vaz said the house owners and other land losers along the proposed Western Bypass alignment passing through Navelim (Telaulim) most of whom are poor, have lived in their houses for generations and now are suddenly sought to be forcibly evicted.
He complained that no rehabilitation packages are offered to these “Niz Goykars” by the aam admi Government, whereas non-Goans are quickly offered free plots and compensations because of the vote banks.
Also the compensation offered is as low as Rs 8 per sq. mts, which is absurd and daylight robbery of our houses and properties, he added.
Some members suggested that since Navelim is fast developing area, taking the bypass through Navelim will cause lot of inconvenience to the residents.
