Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Goa Chief Amit Palekar on Friday extended an open invitation to all 40 Goan MLAs for a bike ride on August 23, 2025, from Porvorim to Mapusa. The rally aims to highlight the everyday struggles of the middle class caused by poor road conditions in Goa.
During a press conference at the party office, Palekar criticized the BJP-led State government’s handling of the issue. He pointed out that although the Chief Minister had promised to blacklist contractors responsible for substandard roadwork, only one contractor has been penalized.
“The problem lies in the governance of the BJP government,” said Palekar. “I urge all MLAs to visit their own constituencies and see firsthand the deplorable state of the roads. They should personally experience what the common man goes through every day.”
Palekar emphasized that the situation will only improve if accountability is enforced at the lower levels of the Public Works Department. “Junior engineers must be held responsible, and disciplinary action should be taken against them,” he said. “If necessary, FIRs should be filed not only against erring contractors but also against complicit government officials.”
He also raised concerns over corruption within the system, stating, “How can contractors build quality roads if they are forced to pay hefty commissions to officials and politicians?”
Palekar concluded by reiterating that AAP will go ahead with the bike rally and invite all MLAs — including those from AAP — to participate and experience the true condition of Goa’s roads for themselves.