MAPUSA
Construction of the six-lane elevated corridor on the Porvorim stretch of National Highway-66 (NH-66) is advancing steadily, with 12 piers now in place and foundations for an additional 17 piers completed.
The project, aimed at alleviating heavy traffic congestion, is progressing at a brisk pace, according to Jude Carvalho, Executive Engineer of the Public Works Department (PWD) for the National Highways.
Designed to stretch over 5.15 kms, the elevated corridor will rest on 86 piers plus two abutments and 87 spans, with pier heights varying from 8 to 10 metres, while the tallest piers are set to reach 13 metres.
A total of 1,431 concrete segments will form the corridor, with 33 segments ready for deployment.
Each span is expected to consist of around 19 segments.
The project team anticipates launching these segments by the last week of November or the first week of December.
"Work on the elevated corridor is progressing at a very fast pace with the highest quality standards. If it proceeds like this, we may complete the project ahead of schedule," said Carvalho.
Motorists using the Porvorim stretch have been facing challenges due to the ongoing construction, with frequent traffic jams during peak hours.
However, the PWD (NH) has been coordinating with various departments, including the Traffic Cell, Water Supply Division, Water Resources Department (WRD), and the Electricity Department, to minimise disruption.
The Executive Engineer informed that regular maintenance of the designated diversion roads, which are scheduled to be resurfaced this month, aims to ease some of the commuter inconvenience.
The PWD has also been sprinkling water to control dust pollution along the construction route.
Awarded to Rajasthan-based Rajendra Singh Bamboo Infra Pvt Ltd (RSBIPL) with a bid of Rs 386 crore, the project cost includes shifting utilities, consultant fees, and other contingencies.
Once completed, the elevated corridor is expected to streamline the flow of traffic through Porvorim, significantly reducing congestion and enhancing the travel experience for commuters.
