Today's GT Weekender's headlines state that "Sealink gets 7 bids". This refers to the project to link Dona Paula and Vasco by a bridge apparently. It seems the bidding process is to be finalised by next week ; the technical report within 6 months; the entire bidding process within 10 months.
While I don't think anyone is against better transport facilities in Goa, the haste with which this particular project is being sought to be implemented seems suspicious. When public money is going to be used, the public should be involved in deciding whether or not this idea is the most effective solution to the transport problems in the Vasco area. And we are talking of hundreds if not thousands of crores of rupees. Why is there so little public debate on the matter? Has anyone for instance assessed whether it would or would not be more cost effective to use the money to improve the current road network? Even if a direct link between Vasco and Panjim is needed, would not a modern ferry service have been a better idea? What impact will this project have on the tax payer? And on the environment? Until the issue becomes far more transparent, on the face of it this sea-link stinks. Augusto Pinto -- Augusto Pinto 40, Novo Portugal, Moira, Bardez, Goa, India E [email protected] or [email protected] P 0832-2470336 M 9881126350
