MARGAO: Stating that the issue of traffic congestion has remained unresolved, the residents of Margao have renewed their demand to relocate educational institutions from the State’s commercial capital.
The residents, who have advocated for relocating the educational institutions, feel that decentralising educational facilities could help mitigate traffic congestion in the town.
Several residents have urged the government and Margao MLA Digambar Kamat to address the issue during the ongoing assembly session and find a permanent solution.
Many residents believe that the current traffic congestion during peak school hours in Margao, not only inconveniences commuters and the public, but also poses risks to the students attending classes at these educational institutions.
The crowded conditions and traffic snarls increase the vulnerability of students to accidents and delays, impacting their safety and academic schedules.
Chirang Datta Naik, a resident of Margao, said that if educational institutions had not been relocated to the integrated educational complex at Cujira-Bambolim, Panjim would likely have faced even worse conditions.
“Educational institutes such as Mushtifund, Dempo College and Higher Secondary School of Commerce, K B Hedgewar, Red Rosary, and Anjuman Nurul High School were relocated,” he added, referring to the successful relocation of prominent educational institutions to the integrated educational complex at Cujira-Bambolim.
He said that due to the persistent and worsening traffic congestion in Margao, coupled with what he perceives as a lack of will among stakeholders to resolve the issue over the past several years, it is now imperative to consider relocating schools at least.
“I strongly insist that schools be relocated to an integrated educational complex in Navelim on an urgent basis. The land at Navelim is already acquired and is in possession of the Directorate of Education,” he said.
Chirang Datta Naik calls for utilising existing resources and infrastructure in Navelim to centralise educational facilities, potentially alleviating congestion and improving accessibility for students and residents in Margao.
Naik said, “The locals are absolutely not against this educational hub, but urge that the government should look into peripheral infrastructure first around the village, before relocating schools and colleges.”
Peter Fernandes, another citizen, said that there is an urgent need to relocate schools from Margao.
“What we have noticed is that the traffic congestion problem is not getting resolved despite assurances from the authorities concerned and political leaders,” he alleged.
