Team Herald
MARGAO: Efforts are ramping up to address long-standing infrastructure challenges in Seraulim and nearby villages with plans for new flyovers and bridges aimed at improving connectivity and mitigating recurring issues like monsoon flooding and traffic congestion.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you can help support our journalism by adding OHeraldo as a preferred source.
Environment Minister Aleixo Sequeira is spearheading these initiatives in collaboration with Railways officials. During a recent meeting at the South Goa District Collectorate, he underscored the urgency of the Seraulim flyover. While land for the project was acquired by the Public Works Department (PWD) in the 1990s, Sequeira revealed that encroachments have taken over nearly half the acquired property. The PWD has been instructed to conduct a detailed survey to identify encroachments and determine the project’s feasibility.
“The Seraulim flyover is essential not only for easing traffic but also for addressing the underpass flooding that disrupts life every monsoon. The survey will help resolve land issues and move the project forward,” Sequeira explained.
At the same meeting, Sequeira urged Railways officials to expedite work on the Majorda flyover and the Utorda pedestrian-cum-two-wheeler bridge, particularly emphasizing the safety concerns of schoolchildren in Utorda.
“This bridge will allow students safe and unhindered access to their playground,” he stated.
The meeting also touched on land demarcation along the Velsao stretch for the double-tracking project, scheduled for December 20. This exercise is expected to resolve ownership disputes and clarify the boundaries of Railways’ acquired land. “Any disputes will be resolved amicably,” Sequeira assured.
In discussions with Konkan Railway officials, Sequeira advocated for a flyover to improve connectivity between Majorda, Utorda, and Calata villages, addressing regional traffic bottlenecks.
Sequeira further elaborated on the history of the Seraulim underpass, noting that the PWD had initially acquired land for underpasses on both sides of the railway. However, subsequent encroachments hindered progress. He stressed that the proposed flyover would serve as a permanent solution to these recurring disruptions.
