MAPUSA
In a significant development aimed at easing traffic congestion and improving road safety, the Central government has given the green light to a long-pending infrastructure project at the accident-prone Peddem junction on the National Highway 66 (NH-66).
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has officially floated a tender for the construction of a vehicular underpass (VUP)/flyover near the Peddem junction, with an estimated budget of Rs 33.31 crore.
The proposed underpass is set to come up approximately 200 metres away from the existing junction while heading towards Panaji, at kilometre 502.37 of NH-66.
According to the detailed tender documents, the scope of work includes the full construction of the underpass along with approach roads on either side.
The tender has been issued under the authority of Executive Engineer of Work Division VII (NH), Jude Carvalho.
The project is expected to be completed within 540 days – roughly one and a half years – from the date of commencement.
The bidding process for the tender will culminate with the opening of bids on May 8, 2025.
The decision to build the underpass comes as a response to the persistent demands of residents from the localities of Peddem, Camarcazan and Acoi, who have long expressed concern over the chaotic traffic conditions and high risk of accidents at the junction.
Since the expansion of NH-66, the Peddem junction has turned into a dangerous crossing point, with vehicles frequently criss-crossing from service roads on either side of the highway, particularly during peak hours.
Several accidents have been reported in the area over the years, highlighting the urgent need for a traffic solution.
Residents have pointed out that the lack of a safe crossing mechanism not only endangers motorists but also poses a risk to pedestrians, including school children and the elderly.
The new underpass is expected to serve as a vital link for commuters from Pernem and Bicholim heading to the district hospital located in Peddem. Additionally, it will provide safer and quicker access for local residents to reach educational institutions and public facilities without having to enter the congested Mapusa city centre.
“This project has been long overdue. We’re hopeful that this underpass will reduce the chaotic traffic condition presently experienced at the junction and finally bring some safety and relief to the people,” said John Lobo, a resident of Peddem.
Once completed, the underpass is anticipated to streamline the flow of traffic, reduce accident rates, and enhance overall connectivity in the region.
With the tender process officially underway, local stakeholders are keeping a close watch on the timeline and execution of the project, which many consider a critical step toward safer and more efficient transportation infrastructure in North Goa.
