Margao Bandhara Project Faces Allegations as WRD Presentation Deadline Nears
As the deadline for the water resources department's promised PowerPoint presentation approaches, residents of Mirabag in Margao have intensified their opposition to the proposed bandhara project. The community, which has been vocal in its criticism, now alleges that the initiative is fundamentally flawed and serves industrial interests rather than addressing local water needs.
Residents Claim Project is a Sham Benefiting Industries
Protest leaders and villagers assert that the bandhara project, officially promoted as a measure to augment water supply, is actually designed to benefit nearby industries at the expense of the village. They argue that the project's justification is based on misleading data, with one key allegation focusing on the reported water shortfall.
Sanket Bhandari, a prominent protest leader, has been particularly vocal in challenging the authorities' claims. "The projected 2 MLD water shortfall cited by authorities is completely fictional," Bhandari stated emphatically. "Our investigation shows that this water is already being consumed by an industry operating in the area. The real issue isn't a shortage for homes—it's diversion to industrial use."
Bhandari further emphasized that supporting documents back these serious charges, suggesting a deliberate misrepresentation of facts by project proponents. The residents' frustration has grown as they perceive their genuine water concerns being sidelined in favor of industrial interests.
WRD Minister Confirms Presentation Schedule
In response to the escalating situation, WRD minister Subhash Shirodkar has announced concrete plans to address villagers' concerns. Department engineers are scheduled to visit Mirabag between February 26 and 28 to present the detailed project plan directly to the community.
"The presentation is fully prepared and ready for delivery," Shirodkar confirmed, indicating the department's intention to proceed with transparency. The minister emphasized that the upcoming visit aims to provide comprehensive explanations and address all questions raised by Mirabag residents regarding the bandhara project's purpose and implementation.
This development comes at a critical juncture, with the presentation deadline looming and community opposition showing no signs of diminishing. The WRD's approach during the scheduled visit will likely determine whether tensions ease or escalate further in this ongoing dispute over water resources and development priorities in Margao.
