Senior PWD engineer says repairs only after rains subside
Motorists negotiate the bad stretch of road in Cunchelim, Mapusa.
Photo Credits: Shekar Naik
MAPUSA
The heavy downpour experienced over the past month has left roads across the State, particularly in Mapusa, in a deplorable condition, causing significant inconvenience to motorists and pedestrians. Three key roads in the commercial town of North Goa have been severely impacted.
A stretch near the Karrasvaddo junction, a 200-meter section near Bodgeshwar temple, and a road in Cunchelim have deteriorated to a pitiable state. The condition is particularly challenging for two-wheeler riders.
The road near Karrasvaddo junction has partially washed away, creating a large pothole that disrupts the flow of heavy traffic, especially during peak hours. This junction is crucial for vehicles traveling between Mapusa and Tivim-Bicholim-Valpoi and those heading to Cunchelim and Karrasvaddo. Accumulated rainwater in the pothole further complicates navigation for motorists.
Two-wheeler riders have borne the brunt of these conditions, often dismounting and manually pushing their bikes to avoid accidents. Frustrated motorists expressed their anger at the poor road maintenance. “We pay so much in road taxes, yet we face these issues every monsoon,” complained one motorist.
Another rider suggested that the Public Works Department (PWD) should cease digging roads in May and focus on patching up existing damage before the monsoon. The road near Bodgeshwar temple, at the entrance to Mapusa, is riddled with potholes and deep gashes, exacerbated by inadequate drainage that leads to waterlogging.
The Cunchelim road, a vital route for tourists heading to North Goa’s coastal areas, has also suffered significant damage. Increased traffic, following the opening of the Mopa airport, has exacerbated the wear and tear on this road. A 100-meter stretch is particularly hazardous, causing frequent accidents.
Local residents have expressed their frustration with the lack of action from the authorities. “We often have to help people who fall on this road. Six to eight accidents happen here daily,” said a local resident. Criticism has also been directed at the local councilor and MLA for their failure to address the issue.
“If the authorities can’t fix the road, they should let us know. We’ll buy cement bags and repair it ourselves,” said an exasperated resident.
A senior PWD engineer acknowledged the problem but stated that only temporary measures, such as filling potholes with stones, can be taken until the rains subside.
“We understand the difficulties faced by the public, but we are constrained by the intensity of the rains. Comprehensive repairs can only be undertaken after the monsoon,” he explained.
