NT Reporter | Margao
The Sarzora gram sabha on Sunday strongly opposed the proposed expansion of the western bypass on the new alignment, saying it will divide the village. They demanded that the government proceed with the existing alignment.
The gram sabha said the South Western Railway line had already split the small village, and the proposed bypass at Chinchinim would divide it further.
Members said farmers would be the most affected and risk losing fields that would be left without proper access. Villagers demanded that the government stick to the original alignment for which land acquisition has already been completed.
The gram sabha again demanded that operations of Sarzora lake be handed over to the village and criticised the Water Resources Department for its ‘high-handed’ and ‘illegal’ takeover of the water body. Sarpanch Riya Oliveira read out the WRD’s reply to the previous gram sabha’s demand seeking access to the lake.
Members also raised concerns about tenants, calling for proper verification as many households allegedly do not report the presence of tenants.
The gram sabhaalso discussed the issue of stray cattle in the village.