Madganvcho Awaaz and youth leader Prabhav Naik has demanded an immediate halt to the tender process for a controversial ₹3.96 crore project at the Margao Municipal Garden. In a letter to the Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation (GSIDC) Chairman, Naik raised alarms over demolishing an existing structure for a two-storey building at this site.
Cultural Heritage at Risk
The garden has hosted Margao’s Sarvajanik Shree Ganeshotsav and community events for generations, holding deep religious and emotional value for Salcete residents. Naik questioned the project’s purpose, demanding clarity on feasibility studies, heritage impact assessments, and stakeholder consultations, none of which appear conducted.
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Public Fears of Commercial Misuse
Citizens fear the new structure could become a bar, restaurant, massage spa, or dance bar, clashing with Margao’s social fabric. Naik highlighted objections voiced during Master Plan 2041 discussions, calling such uses “unacceptable.”
Call for Transparency
Naik also submitted a memorandum to the Margao Municipal Council, urging the Chief Officer to publicize all documents including the Council resolution. “Take Margao’s people into confidence first,” he insisted.
