Panaji, Nov 2 (Agency) Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday said opposition to infrastructure projects in Goa were obstructing economic development which could give jobs to the people. ‘We all should do better to obtain international benchmarks, but the economy is also important so that people can get jobs and poverty is alleviated. There has to be a balance between both, hand in hand,” he said during a press conference. ‘There were protests when the railway came to Goa but see its benefits now. I respect all the environmental activists.
I am committed to achieve international benchmarks on pollution but the economy is also important as it gives employment which alleviates poverty,’ he said. He pointed out that he had brought alternative fuel to the country and advocated promoting CNG and electric buses. Goa has been witnessing opposition to infrastructure projects which included double-tracking of railway lines, widening of national highways and a new power line. As per the proposal, the three projects are to pass through the Western Ghats.