Team Herald
MARGAO: The Navelim Civic and Consumer Forum has raised concerns over the unchecked growth of educational institutions in the village, arguing that it has worsened traffic congestion and strained local infrastructure. In a letter to the Town and Country Planning (TCP) Department, the forum pointed out that approvals for new buildings have been granted without assessing the village’s carrying capacity.
The forum highlighted that the influx of students, teachers, and staff traveling to and from these institutions has led to severe bottlenecks, particularly around the Navelim Church junction. Despite the opening of the Margao Western Bypass, residents continue to face daily gridlocks, as many students are dropped off in private vehicles, and teachers occupy parking spaces for long hours.
The issue is further exacerbated by sports activities at a village playground, which lacks designated parking. Vehicles spill onto internal roads, affecting residents in areas like Ratwaddo, Sinquetim, and Davorlim. The forum also pointed out that these buildings have been approved without ensuring essential infrastructure such as parking, open spaces, and other facilities.
Calling for a review of all past approvals, the forum urged the TCP to conduct a fresh survey to determine whether the village’s infrastructure can support further expansions. They also requested an immediate halt to any new construction until the existing congestion is addressed.
The forum warned that continued inaction would not only impact residents but also hinder the movement of emergency services and affect local businesses.
