Resolution on construction of Dongorim-Firgulem Bridge adopted
HERALD REPORTER
MARGAO, APRIL 26
Amidst objection from the opposition group, the ruling Aquem-Baixo Panchayat on Monday adopted a resolution 4-3 votes supporting the construction of the Dongorim-Firgulem bridge by the Public Works Department.
While the elected representatives deliberated on the resolution tabled by the newly-elected Sarpanch, Milagres Piexote, a large number of bridge supporters assembled outside the Panchayat ghar this afternoon demanding completion of the ongoing work on the Dongorim-Firgulem bridge.
Armed with placards, the local people strongly rooted for the bridge, saying the bridge once completed will help the residents of Firgulem and Aquem-Baixo from getting to Navelim Church and educational institutions.
At the urgent meeting of the Panchayat body, the voting on the resolution tabled by the sarpanch took place on expected lines. While former Sarpanch Agnelo Dias, Damu Naik and Sunita opposed the resolution, the Sarpanch and three other panch members voted in favour of the resolution.
Sarpanch Milagres pointed out that the resolution supersedes the resolution adopted by the Panchayat earlier opposing the bridge, saying the bridge would provide easy access to the people and school children, especially during the monsoons.
Opposition Panch Damu Naik opposed the resolution on grounds that the matter is sub judice and demanded to know how the Panchayat can change a resolution passed last year.
In fact, Damu and Sunita later told newsmen that they are in favour of a foot bridge or a small bridge for pedestrians and two-wheelers instead of bridge meant for four-wheelers.
However, the people who assembled outside the Panchayat Ghar made a strong case for the bridge. Orlando Dias said the people have been fighting for a bridge since the last 25 year as they had been struggling to cross over to Navelim through the short route.
He said no one from the Aquem-Baixo village had ever opposed the bridge construction, adding that there are a some people who are opposing the bridge in the name of a Forum.
A woman said the bridge will help the people in general and school children in particular, saying that children had to wade through waters to get to schools located in Navelim.
“Only a few people are opposing the construction of the bridge, but this bridge is badly required and the people as a whole wholeheartedly support the bridge construction”, remarked Panch member Ashok Shirodkar.
