Grievances of bypass at Dandeavaddo on NH 66 is still born For over a decade, residents have not only suggested cost-effective alternatives but have also ensured that official surveys were carried out for the same. The sole justification repeatedly offered was that the required land had already been acquired. It must be noted that a Major District Road was later converted into a National Highway, unfortunately passing through densely inhabited areas.
The land acquisition of 30 metres was specifically meant for a two-lane highway and this process has already been completed. However, under the pretext of “verifying acquisition markings,” new boundary stones are being installed while old stones are retained in some places and removed in others to fix new ones. This explanation appears unusual and raises serious doubts. Residents were categorically assured that the project would be executed strictly within the already acquired land and that no further acquisition would be necessary. Contrary to these assurances, additional land is now being sought. More disturbing is the fact that the alignment has been shifted in a manner that appears to protect illegal settlements, while causing grave prejudice to ancestral homes that have existed for decades. Further, the imposition of a 45-metre setback from the centreline, coupled with minor yet consequential alignment changes, has resulted in denial of basic amenities such as water connections, citing fresh acquisition requirements. These decisions will have long-term adverse consequences for residents, especially when viable alternatives have been arbitrarily shelved without any justifiable reason. It is unfortunate that all stakeholders, including the State Government, appear to have meekly surrendered to the might of the authorities, leaving affected residents without any relief whatsoever. The land was originally acquired for poultry compensation at ₹13 per sq. metre, an amount that did not even cover the cost of demolition, let alone readjustment and rehabilitation. Adding to the residents’ anguish, the local MLA seems to have capitalised on public grief while enjoying perks and associated benefits, without providing meaningful support to those affected. Nelson Lopes Chinchinim Nelson Lopes Chinchinim https://lopesnelsonnat.wordpress.com
