The Rail Underpass Work Sparks Cansaulim Outcry after villagers in the area accused South Western Railway and Rail Vikas Nigam Limited officials of entering private properties without permission. The Rail Underpass Work Sparks Cansaulim Outcry when heavy machinery arrived near Cansaulim Railway Station, triggering fear, anger, and confusion among affected families.
Residents claimed officials and a real-estate lobby attempted to force access to Prial and Buttem wards without notices, consultations, or legal land acquisition. Villagers gathered quickly and demanded an immediate halt, calling it criminal trespass on land belonging to Maria Celina D’Souza Antao.
Political leaders, including GPCC president Amit Patkar, South Goa MP Captain Viriato Fernandes, and Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai, reached the site and questioned the legality of the project. Many locals criticised their own MLA, Anthony Vas, for not addressing their concerns.
Tensions rose further when an RVNL official allegedly dismissed the landowner’s objections in front of authorities. Joint Mamlatdar Jennifer visited the location but redirected the matter to the deputy collector, which frustrated villagers.
Under public pressure, officials removed part of the machinery, but residents demanded a full withdrawal and legal action. They insisted they support development, but it must follow transparent, lawful, and respectful procedures.
