Daijiworld Media Network – Panaji
Panaji, Sep 10: Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari on Wednesday called for concerted efforts to make Goa free from water, air and noise pollution, stressing that good infrastructure and a clean environment are crucial for attracting investment and generating employment.
Speaking after inaugurating the six-lane Porvorim elevated corridor, which is expected to improve connectivity in North Goa, Gadkari said infrastructure providing water, power, transport and communication facilities plays an important role in economic development.
He advocated greater use of alternative fuels and electric, hydrogen and flex-fuel technologies to reduce pollution. Gadkari also urged the Goa government to undertake holistic development of the state, which is a major tourist destination, and ensure that Goa remains clean and green.
The Union minister announced that work on the Bhoma-Ponda road project will commence in October 2026 and is targeted for completion by October 2028. The foundation stone for the project was laid earlier in 2025.
Gadkari called for a comprehensive traffic study and reforms in Goa, including consolidation of markets, shifting warehouses outside cities, improving bus depots and better traffic synchronisation to ease congestion.
He also urged the state government to develop roadside amenities along highways that reflect Goa’s distinctive architecture, cuisine and handicraft traditions. Such facilities, he said, could offer tourists a unique experience while also promoting local handloom and handicraft products.
Gadkari suggested that petrol and diesel pumps along the highway be supplemented with facilities for biofuels, electric vehicles and other alternative fuels. He said his ministry was ready to support such initiatives if the Goa government submitted a request.
Calling for the highway to be developed as a “green highway”, Gadkari suggested creating an “oxygen park” along its route, similar to one developed in Nagpur. He stressed the need for scientific landscaping rather than arbitrary tree plantation by contractors.
“Proper study should be conducted to determine which flowering trees and species should be planted, and which species absorb more carbon dioxide and release oxygen,” he said.
Gadkari also said his ministry had set seven world records through various projects but that he now wanted to establish another record by taking strict action against contractors who delay infrastructure works.
Referring to the delays in widening the Mumbai-Goa highway, Gadkari said he had earlier felt ashamed over the prolonged delay but would travel along the highway in October to inspect the progress of the work.
He reiterated that strict action would continue against contractors and officials responsible for delays and poor execution of infrastructure projects.
Speaking about the newly inaugurated Porvorim elevated corridor, Gadkari said it would reduce travel time and provide significant benefits to commuters across Goa. He thanked the contractor for completing the project ahead of schedule and appreciated the public for its support.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, Union Minister Shripad Naik, Public Works Minister Digambar Kamat, Rajya Sabha member Sadanand Tanawade, state Legislative Assembly Speaker Ganesh Gaonkar and state BJP president Damodar Naik, besides cabinet ministers and MLAs, were present on the occasion.