Hotmixing in progress on the Sangolda bypass.
Photo Credits: Agnelo Pereira
MAPUSA
After facing criticism over flooding in parts of Porvorim last year, the Public Works Department (PWD), National Highway division, has pledged to begin pre-monsoon preparations by mid-April to ensure proper drainage and prevent a repeat of the issue.
Executive Engineer Jude Carvalho assured that efforts would be made to restore existing drainage systems and complete pending works where possible.
“This time, we are focused on restoring old drains and ensuring that there is no flooding due to our negligence. Work will begin by April 15, well before the monsoons,” Carvalho stated.
The assurance comes after residents raised concerns through an intervention petition in the High Court. The petition highlighted the inconvenience caused by flooding and ongoing construction on the elevated corridor along the highway, which has been disrupting traffic and affecting local residents.
Carvalho acknowledged the hardships faced by the community but attributed last year’s delays to the enforcement of the model code of conduct during the Lok Sabha elections.
“Last year, the code of conduct prevented us from tendering work until June. By the time it was lifted, the monsoon had already set in. We did whatever work was possible during the rains, but it was insufficient,” he explained.
Residents hope the early start to pre-monsoon work will mitigate flooding and improve living conditions in Porvorim.
The High Court is currently hearing the Public Interest Litigation (PIL) regarding the highway works and their impact on the local population.
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PWD announces progress on Sangolda diversion bypass
MAPUSA: The Public Works Department (PWD), National Highway division, has expedited the hotmixing work on the Sangolda bypass road, which is expected to be completed within the next few days.
The move aims to divert traffic from the main highway stretch and facilitate the construction of the elevated corridor in Porvorim.
Executive Engineer Jude Carvalho confirmed the progress and said the bypass road, extending from Damian de Goa through Sapna Village to the Chogm road, will be ready soon.
“Hotmixing of the Sangolda bypass is underway and will be completed in two to three days. Once finished, traffic will be diverted through this route, allowing us to proceed with work on the elevated corridor,” he stated.
Carvalho added that the diversion will be implemented within one to two months, enabling the department to undertake pier foundation work in the middle stretch of the corridor, from the Hyundai showroom to O’Coqueiro Hotel.
The Sangolda bypass is expected to significantly ease congestion during the construction phase and minimise inconvenience to motorists and residents in the area.
