Daijiworld Media Network - Calangute

Calangute, Nov 8: Calangute sarpanch Joseph Sequeira has alleged that the Mapusa deputy collector is delaying several public works proposed by the village panchayat, leaving elected representatives facing criticism from residents for failing to fulfil their promises.

Sequeira said villagers had been questioning him about the delay in implementing proposals, including the notification of bus stops and installation of speed-breakers, even though the panchayat had initiated the necessary procedures.

Explaining one such instance, the sarpanch said the panchayat had written to the Calangute traffic cell inspector in September, forwarding a resolution seeking permission to install boom barriers and no-parking signboards in Tito's Lane.

The panchayat had proposed declaring Tito's Lane a no-parking zone during weekends, considering the heavy movement of tourists and vehicles in the area. Sequeira said the lane becomes extremely congested, making it difficult for emergency services such as fire engines and ambulances to enter in the event of a fire or accident.

He said the Calangute traffic cell inspector had forwarded the proposal to the Superintendent of Police (Traffic), who subsequently wrote to the North Goa district collector seeking approval. However, the proposal is still awaiting clearance.

Similarly, proposals for notifying certain bus stops and installing speed-breakers have also remained pending, Sequeira said, adding that the panchayat had not been informed about the reasons for withholding approval.

The sarpanch said the panchayat was attempting to implement suggestions and demands raised by residents and tourism stakeholders during gram sabhas. However, the delay in obtaining administrative approvals had resulted in villagers blaming panchayat representatives for failing to execute the proposed works.

Sequeira expressed concern that despite the panchayat taking initiatives to address local issues and improve public safety, the lack of timely clearances was affecting the implementation of development works.