In a significant move for Goa's infrastructure, the Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation (GSIDC) has officially initiated the process to build a permanent road link to Chorao island. The corporation has invited bids from contractors for the construction of the crucial Salvador-do-Mundo–Madel Church (Chorao) bridge, a project estimated to cost Rs 274.8 crore.
A Long-Awaited Lifeline for Goa's Largest Island
This tender marks a potential turning point for Chorao, the largest among Goa's 17 islands, located just 5km from Panaji. For years, the island, renowned for the Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, has relied entirely on round-the-clock ferry services from Ribandar for connectivity to the mainland. The proposed bridge will directly connect Salvador-do-Mundo on the mainland to Madel on Chorao, fulfilling a persistent demand from residents and stakeholders for a reliable, all-weather link.
The GSIDC has set an ambitious target to complete the construction within three years, a timeline that includes the monsoon periods. This project is a key part of broader governmental efforts to improve connectivity to Goa's various islands.
Path to Tendering: Land Acquisition and Local Concerns
The journey to this tender stage involved preparatory steps throughout 2023. The government initiated land acquisition for the project, with local MLAs Rohan Khaunte (Porvorim) and Premendra Shet (Mayem) holding meetings to expedite the process. Officials had committed to floating the tender only after completing the land transfer, with assurances of due compensation for landowners before commencing work on road widening and approach stretches.
However, the project has not been without controversy. In March 2023, locals at a Salvador do Mundo gram sabha voiced strong opposition. Their primary fears included the potential demolition of houses and compound walls due to road widening, coupled with concerns about inadequate compensation from the government. Residents also expressed anxiety about increased traffic on narrow village roads and a possible surge in speculative real estate transactions.
Balancing Development and Community Impact
Despite these local apprehensions, proponents of the bridge argue it will transform economic access and connectivity for Chorao's residents. The current dependence on ferry services makes the island vulnerable to disruptions during adverse weather conditions. The bridge is envisioned as a stable, year-round solution.
In recent years, the government has taken interim steps to improve the existing ferry system. Notably, in July 2025, roll-on, roll-off (Ro-Ro) ferry services were launched on the Ribandar-Chorao route. This upgrade significantly reduced travel time and improved efficiency for vehicle transport, serving as a stop-gap measure ahead of the permanent bridge.
The floating of this tender by GSIDC injects fresh momentum into a project that has been discussed for years. Its successful completion promises to end the isolation of Chorao Island, boost its local economy, and provide residents with a dependable link to the mainland, while also presenting new challenges in managing urbanisation and preserving local community life.
