Bridge of Corruption: Savio Coutinho Blasts Criminal Negligence in ₹100 Crore Rawanfond Scam
Margot, Goa | 22 May 2025 – Former Chairperson of Margao Municipal Council (MMC) and Margao Congress Block Convener, Mr. Savio Coutinho, along with his team, conducted an inspection visit to the Rawanfond bridge site, which has suffered significant damage following the recent spell of incessant rains in the region.
Mr. Coutinho came down heavily on the project consultant and the contractor executing the bridge work, accusing them of “criminal negligence” that has led to the current hazardous state of the bridge and the consequent diversion of traffic via Calcondem and the flyover bridge.
“It takes simple common sense to understand the need for adequate protection to the approach road embankment of the existing bridge,” said Mr. Coutinho. “The contractor dug open the retaining section of the existing approach road to construct the foundation for the new bridge, but shockingly failed to provide any alternate protection to retain the mud filling of the old embankment,” he added.
He further stated that the quality of work was so poor that even a 1000-litre water tank being emptied at the site would have caused soil erosion, let alone the monsoon rains that Goa is currently experiencing.
Strongly condemning the laxity, Mr. Coutinho demanded that immediate action be taken against both the contractor and the consultant responsible for the bridge project. He announced that a formal police complaint would be filed in this regard.
This is not the first time concerns have been raised over the Rawanfond bridge project. Mr. Coutinho recalled that around six months ago, the Margao Congress Block had organized a protest at the same site, questioning the sharp and unexplained cost escalation of the project—from ₹21.30 crore in 2021 to ₹54.13 crore shortly after the defection of Margao MLA Digambar Kamat to the BJP.
“What shocked us further was the Chief Minister’s own admission, during the foundation stone laying ceremony, that the project cost had further escalated to ₹74 crore,” said Coutinho. “The Rawanfond bridge appears to be turning into a golden goose, benefitting someone somewhere. At this rate, we won’t be surprised if the cost crosses ₹100 crore — with no transparency or justification,” he alleged.
Mr. Coutinho has called on authorities to investigate the mismanagement and financial irregularities, and ensure accountability from all those involved in this public infrastructure disaster.
