Vasco: Tensions rose in Cansaulim on Sunday after villagers alleged that officials of South Western Railway (SWR) and Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) forcefully entered private properties with heavy earth-moving machinery to begin work on a proposed railway underpass near Cansaulim railway station.
Landowners alleged that the action amounted to ‘criminal trespass’ and that it was linked to real estate interests targeting Prial and Buttem wards.
They said the work began without land acquisition procedures or any consultation with the locals.
“An owner of the land showed me the documents and it seems this property has come to him from his ancestors. It is an at least 300-year-old inheritance. I later complained about it to Verna police,” said South Goa MP Viriato Fernandes.
Protests erupted when residents objected to work allegedly carried out on property belonging to Maria Celina Antao. Villagers said that activity continued despite objections and accused Cortalim MLA Anthony Vas of supervising “illegal” work instead of addressing citizens’ concerns.
Several political leaders arrived, including GPCC president Amit Patkar, Viriato, Fatorda GFP MLA Vijai Sardesai, South Goa Congress district president Savio D’Silva, among others. They questioned the legality of the work and demanded its immediate halt.
Anger grew after RVNL Goa GM Sahoo allegedly told the landowner, “Do what you want to do,” in the presence of senior officials and elected representatives.
Joint mamlatdar Jennifer was deputed to the site but, despite appeals from the MP, referred the matter to the Mormugao deputy collector.
Under pressure from residents and leaders, some machinery was demobilised, easing tensions. Villagers have demanded removal of all remaining machinery, booking of RVNL and SWR officials for alleged trespass, and impounding of equipment.
Residents warned that ignoring legal procedures and public sentiment could spark wider unrest. They said any development must follow lawful processes, with full transparency and consent of landowners.
