New Delhi: Goa Forward Party president, Vijai Sardesai, met with Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister of Roads, Transport and Highways, in the capital yesterday, and raised many critical infrastructural issues plaguing Goa.
During the meeting, Sardesai submitted a memorandum detailing important projects that require the union minister’s immediate intervention that would significantly enhance Goa’s transportation network, alleviate traffic congestion, and improve the overall quality of life for Goans.
A key request focused on the Margao stretch of the Western Bypass of National Highway 66, which passes through the village of Benaulim. Sardesai proposed constructing a 650-meter stretch on stilts from Khareband to Varca, in order to avoid damaging the ecosystem and to ensure smoother traffic flow.
The Fatorda MLA also urged the construction of a bypass along the villages of Bhoma and Corlim, to prevent the displacement of local residents, and to protect Goa’s cultural and religious heritage such as the Sateri and Mahadev Temples.
Further, he recommended that the NH 66 passing through Karmal Ghat be built on a viaduct, a move that will save thousands of trees, safeguard the environment and ecology of the area, and offer a viewpoint to admire the beauty of the Western Ghats and the coastline.
He also raised another noteworthy point concerning the lack of clean and hygienic toilets, particularly for women, along the National Highways in Goa. Sardesai called for setting up well-maintained pay toilets to ensure the comfort and convenience of both the residents and the tourists.
In his capacity as an elected representative of the people, Sardesai urged the honourable Minister to examine these critical projects and allocate necessary funds under the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF) for their timely implementation.
He added that the Goa Forward Party remains committed to these initiatives that will enhance connectivity, reduce congestion, improve road safety, and contribute to the overall development and environmental preservation in Goa.
