Team Herald
MARGAO: Tensions are escalating in Chinchinim as highway authorities begin a controversial survey for National Highway 66 expansion, with local officials questioning the project’s alignment.
Chinchinim Sarpanch Frank Viegas revealed that tree markings have been put on 750 trees across the stretch from Bellem junction in Navelim to Uskini-Cuncolim, which includes markings in Chinchinim village, raising serious concerns among local residents.
“We have discovered tree markings for the highway route, and this comes as a shock given the previous assurances we received,” Viegas stated. He pointed out that the Chief Minister had previously met panchayat members, local representatives and media at St Sebastian junction, promising to consider an alternate bypass instead of the current alignment.
Viegas found out that even the Velim MLA is in the dark over this move, adding to the community’s confusion and frustration. “We have been in correspondence with both state and central government authorities, hoping that better sense will prevail before any tree-cutting begins,” he explained.
The local panchayat has been actively challenging the proposed highway route, citing concerns about community displacement and preservation of the area's socio-cultural fabric. Historical records show that the Chinchinim-Deussua Panchayat had previously passed resolutions in 2008 and 2009 supporting alternate bypass routes to minimize local impact.
The locals are demanding that the PWD and National Highway authorities build a road bypass instead of a flyover on the NH66 stretch at Dandeavaddo. In previous meetings with the Chief Minister and Velim MLA Cruz Silva, the delegation led by Sarpanch Frank Viegas explained how a bypass would more effectively address traffic congestion compared to a flyover. They have consistently argued that an alternate bypass route would better serve the purpose of highway decongestion and minimize local displacement.
South Goa MP Captain Viriato Fernandes was also approached by the panchayat who has expressed support for the community's concerns about the NH 66 expansion through Chinchinim village.
As tree markings continue and survey work progresses, the community remains vigilant. “We are determined to protect our village and ensure that our voices are heard,” Viegas emphasized, reflecting the continued resistance to the current highway
expansion plan.