New railway station will see migrant influx, increase in crimes: Sarzora residents

Margao: The recent announcement by chief minister Pramod Sawant about establishing three new stations along the Konkan Railway route, including one at Sarzora, met with strong opposition from local residents who fear an increase in crime and disruption of their peaceful village life. This came just a day after the Azossim-Mandur gram sabha on Sunday vehemently opposed Konkan Railway’s plans to set up a station at Neura, which, together with Agasaim, Corlim and Carambolim, constitute one of Goa’s biggest khazan belts.

Located in Sao Jose de Areal, the proposed station is within 3km of the Margao railway station. Although it is yet to be christened, it is called ‘Sarzora’ for administrative purposes. The proposal to set up the station dates back to 2012 but consistently faced resistance from villagers, forcing Konkan Railway to restrict development plans to available space within its property rather than acquiring additional land as originally planned.

“We don’t want our village to become another Margao, where the railway station led to an influx of migrants and increased criminal activities,” said a concerned resident, pointing out how criminals often use railway stations as escape routes after committing offences.

Sabina Mascarenhas, a member of the Sarzora panchayat, expressed displeasure over the lack of consultation with villagers. “How can the chief minister make such announcements about our village without taking us into confidence?” she questioned, emphasising the potential threat to the village’s natural beauty and agricultural lifestyle.

In a memorandum submitted to local MLA Cruz Silva, villagers highlighted Sarzora’s rich biodiversity and eco-sensitive nature. “Our village is an agricultural belt with vast rice fields and coconut plantations, bounded by hills that are home to leopards and diverse flora and fauna. The picturesque Sarzora lake irrigates massive areas under cultivation,” the memorandum stated.

The villagers further said in the memorandum that they will “oppose tooth and nail any unplanned and unwanted development” that could be detrimental to their village. Concerns were raised about the potential emergence of slums, unauthorised shops, and the anticipated rise in criminal activities following the establishment of the railway station.

Local MLA Cruz Silva, who raised the issue in the recent legislative assembly session, aligned himself with the villagers’ cause. “I have sought detailed information about the proposal and stand with the villagers in this matter,” he said.

Opposition to the railway station is part of a broader effort by Sarzora residents to preserve their village’s character. “We have consistently opposed high-rise buildings and other unplanned projects to maintain our village’s peace and tranquillity,” the memorandum added.

A spokesperson of the Konkan Railway said that the proposed station is planned to decongest Margao railway station, as several mail and express trains will originate and terminate at the proposed new station.