Goa Seeks Enhanced Connectivity with Karnataka: Proposal for New Highway and Daily Passenger Train Discussed

In a bid to strengthen ties and bolster connectivity with its neighbour Karnataka, the government of Goa has proposed initiatives for improved transportation. The announcement came during a meeting of Public Works Ministers from various states, presided over by Union Minister for Road Transport Nitin Gadkari in Panaji on Sunday.

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant put forth a request for Union government support in constructing a new highway between Goa and Belagavi. This proposed road, parallel to the existing route between Sanquelim and Belagavi, aims to enhance connectivity.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has given initial approval to the proposal, urging Chief Minister Pramod Sawant to submit a detailed project report. Public Works Minister and Belagavi district in-charge Satish Jarkiholi were also present during the meeting.

Chief Minister Sawant highlighted that the proposed highway would traverse the inter-state border at Sanquelim, extending to Chorla-Khanapur. He clarified that the abandonment of an earlier plan to widen the existing highway was due to environmental concerns, prompting the exploration of a new route.

The success of the proposal is contingent on obtaining necessary forest clearance. Additionally, Chief Minister Sawant mentioned a pending proposal for the development of a stretch of the national highway between Anmod and Goa.

Minister Jarkiholi assured cooperation from Karnataka in these projects, contingent on the approval of the Union government.

Simultaneously, Rajya Sabha member from Goa, Sadanand Shet Tanavade, has written a letter to Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, urging the introduction of a daily passenger train between Vasco-da-Gama and Belagavi, with stops at Londa and Dudhsagar stations. Tanavade emphasized that such a train would significantly contribute to fostering trade, commerce, medical services, tourism, education, and overall relations between the two states.

This appeal for enhanced connectivity reflects a broader effort to strengthen regional ties and facilitate smoother travel and trade between Goa and Karnataka.