Halt Tender Process for Margao Municipal Garden Project: Prabhav Naik
Margao: Raising serious concerns over the proposed construction at the Margao Municipal Garden, Madganvcho Awaaz and youth leader Prabhav Naik has written to the Chairman of the Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation (GSIDC), seeking urgent clarification and requesting that the tender process be kept on hold.
In his letter, Prabhav Naik highlighted that the ₹3.96 crore project involves the demolition of an existing structure and construction of a two-storey building at a site that holds deep cultural, religious, and emotional significance for the people of Margao. The garden has traditionally been the venue for the Sarvajanik Shree Ganeshotsav and several community activities for generations.
Naik stated that the proposed development has raised widespread concern among citizens and devotees, particularly regarding the impact on the sanctity and heritage of the site. He has sought detailed clarification on the exact purpose and scope of the project, along with information on whether any feasibility study or heritage impact assessment was conducted prior to issuing the tender, and whether local stakeholders were consulted.
Prabhav Naik further pointed out that there are growing apprehensions among the public that the proposed structure could be used for commercial purposes such as a bar, restaurant, massage spa, or even a dance bar. He stressed that such possibilities would be unacceptable and against the cultural and social fabric of the area, especially in light of strong objections raised by citizens during the Master Plan 2041 presentation.
Meanwhile, Prabhav Naik has submitted a separate memorandum to the Margao Municipal Council seeking clarity on the proposed work. He has also urged the Chief Officer to place all relevant documents, including the Council resolution, in the public domain and to take the people of Margao into confidence before executing the project.
