When authorities begin to execute road works, it is always good news for residents in the area. But not all residents are excited about the ongoing road work between Arossim and Upasnagar since the past two months.
What has surprised many of them is that the stretch of road from Arossim to Upasnagar was in good motorable condition and many claimed that it did not need a fresh layer of asphalt in the first place.
On the other hand, they pointed out that other roads in the area, which are in deplorable condition were left out, for reasons best known to authorities.
One such road is the stretch between Cansaulim market and the Verna highway, a heavily used road which also leads to the Verna railway station.
“The road is in terrible condition and I dread to drive regularly on this road as it gives me a headache,” stated a resident, Andrew Fernandes.
The stretch is full of potholes and the uneven surface of the road further adds to the misery of the motorists.
According to another resident, the road connecting to the railway station and the highway should have been accorded top priority in the project, especially since other roads were in better condition and did not need asphalting at all.
“But sadly, authorities chose the easier task of asphalting a good road, rather than levelling and asphalting the connecting road from Cansaulim market to Verna Highway,” remarked the resident.
When the condition of the Cansaulim-Verna road was brought to the notice of Forest Minister and Cortalim MLA Alina Saldanha, she replied, “The road shall be repaired and asphalted soon as the project has already been passed and the work is being tendered.”
Incidentally, while efforts are being made to give a fresh layer of asphalt on those roads which are already good, virtually no effort has been made to asphalt the road leading to Arossim beach.
This has not only affected the business of tourism stakeholders in the area, it has also dismayed tourists visiting the beach.
“I have been coming to this place every year, and the beach is very famous. But it is sad that there is no proper road leading to the beach and instead, we are left to tread on a muddy path” stated Elliot, a foreign tourist.
Residents clearly feel that authorities should have a proper plan before executing major projects.
“Instead of rushing with such projects and wasting public exchequer in unwanted places, the government should study the project and prioritize those places where there are no roads or very poor roads,” said Fabian Dias, a local from Arossim.
