MARGAO: Velim villagers on Saturday held a peaceful dharna on the road near Sucaldem Chichinim to highlight the risks and difficulties faced by motorists plying on the road due to incomplete nullah bridge. The people complained that the work has remained pending for almost six months.
The protesters said that the incomplete work of the nallah has already led to two serious accidents in the area and the people have demanded that the work be completed immediately to prevent further problems.
With the delay in completion of the culvert work on Sucaldem-Assolna road, the villagers have criticised local MLA Benjamin D’Silva and have labeled him as a ‘non-performer’ who is not interested in the welfare of the peoples. The villagers have also alleged that the Velim MLA has turned a nelson’s eye to the death traps along the road. Large pit was seen along the road.
A villager involved in pisciculture alleged losses due to the culvert construction. It was also pointed out that a Catholic priest met with an accident at the site and fractured his leg.
However, the Velim MLA blamed the contractor for the delay and alleged that the contractor’s payment was delayed by the government but now the work was complete. He alleged that the villagers are now unnecessarily politicising the issues with elections around the corner.
