TEAM HERALD
PORVORIM: Rejecting the demand to keep on hold the proposed underpasses near Jivottam Mutt in Porvorim to link PDA colony with the highway, Tourism Minister and Saligao MLA Dilip Parulekar claimed that the project had been initiated following demands by residents of PDA colony.
“The proposed subway project near Jivottam Mutt to link the PDA colony with the highway was undertaken due to demands of residents from PDA colony and hence, the question of keeping this project on hold does not arise,” said Parulekar, while reacting to a letter sent by PDA Ward Panch Sangeeta Narvekar.
It may be recalled that Narvekar had sent a letter on behalf of Porvorim NGPDA Residents Plot Owners Association (PNRPOA) expressing their strong objection to the manner in which two underpasses have been planned, in which the internal narrow roads, part of PDA and open spaces may be used in the name of providing two underpasses. “I was neither aware nor consulted on the project,” she stated in her letter.
“The authorities concerned and officials should explain the project and note the views/grievances of the local residents, if any, for appropriate decision. Till such time, the project may be kept on hold,” added Narvekar.
Parulekar clarified that some residents of PDA Colony had approached him two years ago with a demand to construct the subway near Jivottam Mutt, as vehicles from PDA Colony proceeding towards Panjim are compelled to go right to the O’Coqueiro circle to take a right turn, which consumes a lot of time and wastage of fuel.
“Further, a lot of accidents have taken place when vehicles from PDA Colony have made attempts to cross the road near Jivottam Mutt to proceed towards Panjim. The residents were constantly after me since the last two years. Since their demand was genuine, the government decided to take up the project,” clarified Parulekar.
He flatly rejected claims that the project would promote a few business establishments in the area.
“This project has not been proposed to promote hoteliers and wine shop owners. In fact, traffic along the National Highway 17 will increase substantially in the next 10 years and keeping this in view, this subway is absolutely essential to streamline traffic,” added Parulekar.
