Team Goemkarponn
CORTALIM: Cortalim MLA Anton Vas held discussions with Railway officials on Wednesday to address concerns raised by residents of Velsao regarding the construction of a retaining wall that has blocked traditional pathways to several houses. The meeting followed a memorandum submitted by social worker Roquezinho D’Souza, highlighting the challenges faced by locals due to ongoing double-tracking works.
Speaking to the media, Vas revealed that the Railways have agreed to cooperate with affected residents. “The retaining walls have blocked access to several homes, and the residents need a 4-meter road to accommodate emergency vehicles. The Railways have assured us they are willing to construct the road if locals provide some land, while they will offer available Railway land after the double tracks are laid. The affected residents have agreed to this arrangement and will speak to landowners to facilitate the road construction,” said Vas.
The MLA criticized the opposition for politicizing the double-tracking issue instead of working towards solutions. “The opposition has been using this project to promote their political agenda, misleading people instead of helping them. This project started nearly a decade ago, long before I became an MLA. I’ve always encouraged residents to voice their concerns so we can resolve them, but the opposition misguided them into believing the project could be stopped entirely,” he stated.
Vas highlighted past efforts to address residents’ concerns, including trips to Hubli to meet Railway officials, which resulted in alignment changes saving several homes and a convent. “I also secured an underpass for Cansaulim residents. I even offered to cover the costs of a surveyor and lawyer to assist locals, but opposition leaders misled the community, delaying solutions.”
The MLA urged residents, the Panchayat, and opposition leaders to prioritize the community’s needs and work collaboratively. “We can resolve issues by engaging with Railways and leaving politics aside. The people must inform me of their grievances so we can address them effectively,” he concluded.
