South Goa MP Francisco Sardinha has met with Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari to discuss concerns about the proposed highway expansion that threatens a local village. The meeting aimed to find a solution to protect the village while accommodating necessary infrastructure development.

The village in question is located along the route of a planned highway expansion project designed to improve connectivity and reduce traffic congestion in the region. However, residents and local leaders have raised alarms about the potential displacement and environmental impact on their community.

Sardinha presented the villagers' concerns to Gadkari, emphasising the importance of preserving the village's cultural and environmental heritage. He highlighted that while infrastructure development is crucial, it should not come at the cost of displacing communities and destroying local ecosystems.

Gadkari assured Sardinha that the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways would consider alternative routes and mitigation measures to minimise the project's impact on the village. He stressed the government's commitment to balancing development with the protection of local communities and environments.

The MP's proactive approach underscores the need for careful planning and community involvement in infrastructure projects. Sardinha expressed optimism that a solution could be reached that meets the region's infrastructure needs without harming the village.

This meeting is a crucial step in ensuring that development projects consider the well-being of affected communities. The discussions between Sardinha and Gadkari highlight the importance of sustainable and inclusive development practices in India's infrastructure planning.