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Daijiworld Media Network – Karkala (TP)

Karkala, Sept 30: Frustrated by the inaction of authorities and elected representatives, residents of Pernal–Pilarukana once again came together on Monday, September 29, to stage a unique protest by repairing potholes on the Atradi–Shirva–Baje state highway themselves.

A few days earlier, the group had appealed to the concerned department and people’s representatives to take up road repairs. However, as no concrete action followed, the locals took matters into their own hands.

Teacher Dr Melwyn Castelino, Pernal, said, “The day after the public protest, the authorities only brought a JCB and levelled the protest spot, but beyond that both officials and representatives remained in complete silence. From Jantra Gundupade to Panjimaru, the road is badly damaged and unfit for traffic. Every day many riders fall into potholes and suffer difficulties. The curse of the injured will surely affect them. Our protest is only a beginning, if the concerned authorities still do not act, there is no doubt that the people will rise in revolt.”

DJ Sujay Pernal said, “Representatives come to ask for votes, but why don’t they come now? If you cannot repair this road, give us a written statement. Today we symbolically collected donations from the people, brought cement and sand, prepared ready-mix here, and closed a few potholes. In the coming days, if you fail to do it, we ourselves will continue to fill the road potholes.”

Local women’s associations also extended their support. Those present included Oswald Lobo, Wilfred Castelino, Valentine D’Souza, Lawrence Correa, Sandeep Mendonca, Elias D’Souza, Ashok Lobo, Prakash Mathias, Cinthia, and others.