PONDA: Opposing construction works at Kranti Maidan, Ponda, citizens from Ponda said it is the only open space left in the congested city and appealed the government to preserve it.
Addressing a news conference at Ponda, Rajesh Verenkar and Dilip Dopeshwarkar said the Kranti Maidan has a Martyrs Memorial and is the only open space left in the city. It is a place to celebrate Independence Day, Ganesh festival, Christmas, Dandia, public meetings, etc.
They claimed that the PWD is spending about Rs 4.26 crore on the beautification project and it’s a waste of public money. The municipal council has allowed permission to lay only pavers, but the work on this maidan includes constructing of 36 concrete pillars at the centre, a fountain at the entrance and four lion statues on compound walls, which they alleged is the party symbol of Maharashtrawadi Party.
When contacted, PWD Minister Sudin Dhavalikar refuted the allegations and said those opposing development works are politicising the issue for their personal gains.
“PWD is undertaking the work as per the plan prepared by architect Sadhle. There is no misappropriation and any public member is free to approach the vigilance department about the expenditure,” he said.
“The pillars that are erected will provide information of freedom fighters and martyrs in Goa. Beside, the 400 sq mtrs open space will accommodate about 1,200 chairs for any programme,” said Dhavalikar.
Ponda MLA Lavoo Mamledar said the four lions are the symbols of the Kadamba rule in Goa and denied it is the party symbol. “Some people are politicising the issue,” he said.
