Opposition to new Borim bridge project gains steam

Margao: Villagers of Loutolim, incensed over the proposed acquisition of the paddy fields by govt for the new bridge at Borim, expressed their determination not to part with their land and not to allow the project.
Addressing reporters, the affected farmers and landowners said that they were dependent on their paddy fields for their livelihoods. “Agriculture is our livelihood, and a means for our survival.It’s also the future of our children. We won’t let govt snatch our lands,” said an elderly protester.
Another farmer questioned the rationale of govt in introducing various schemes for the farmers when govt is snatching their paddy fields for building bridges and other mega projects.
Former sarpanch of Loutolim, Xavier Fernandes said that no benefits would be accrued to the locals by the proposed bridge and that, therefore, the villagers wouldn’t allow the project to happen. “The bridge is only going to benefit the corporates,” he said. “People are cultivating the fields and that’s their primary source of livelihood. Govt should refrain from snatching away their livelihoods.”
Early last week, a tense situation was witnessed at Loutolim after a number of residents gathered at the site where the demarcation of the land proposed for acquisition was scheduled by PWD for the new Borim bridge project. The team of PWD and the consultants that had come for the purpose had to beat a retreat on account of the locals’ opposition.
The Loutolim panchayat has written to PWD asking it to submit a detailed schedule of the survey work, demarcation, valuation and other activities, contact information of the consultant engaged by it for the survey work and the heads of govt departments concerned. The panchayat has also asked the PWD to refrain from undertaking any work in the area until all the documents asked for are submitted to the panchayat.