MARGAO: In response to allegations of illegal digging on the National Highway at Arlem-Raia, concerned citizens, local representatives, and the Raia village panchayat have called for an immediate cessation of the work and for action to be taken against those responsible.
The accusations claim that the digging is being carried out to install a water pipeline without the necessary permissions from the local panchayat and the National Highway Authority. Following an inspection at the site, the Raia village panchayat wrote to the Maina-Curtorim police station on Friday, urging action against the unauthorised activity.
Ward Deputy Sarpanch and ward member, Godfray Osward Souza, stated that the panchayat plans to escalate the issue to other relevant authorities, including the National Highway Authority, to address the unauthorised digging. Locals have voiced concerns that the road where the digging is taking place is already known to be accident-prone, and the ongoing work is increasing the risk for commuters and villagers.
“It is unacceptable for villagers to suffer due to the ongoing activity. This is a matter of great concern, and the authorities must address it seriously. I stand in solidarity with the villagers,” declared the Deputy Sarpanch.
