Team Herald
PONDA: To prevent hill cutting and landslides on the NH at Connem-Priol, commuters have suggested exploring the possibility of utilizing and improving the parallel-running Goa Engineering College (GEC) road for one-way, two-lane traffic from Ponda to Panjim. Meanwhile, the Connem-Priol road could operate as a one-way route from Panjim to Ponda. This approach could effectively address the four-lane issue without necessitating hill cutting.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you can help support our journalism by adding OHeraldo as a preferred source.
The existing two-way Connem-Priol NH road is vulnerable to landslides due to hill cutting at various locations. The GEC road runs along the hillside, while the Connem Highway is situated at the foot of the hill, adjacent to residential areas, creating a risk for locals. Therefore, locals advocate for the enhancement of the GEC road to facilitate one-way traffic towards Panjim from Ponda, while the Connem road would serve as a one-way route from Panjim to Ponda. This change would also help alleviate traffic congestion in the event of accidents or landslides on the Connem road.
In the context of potential four-lane widening at Connem, there are concerns about the risks associated with hill cutting, which could lead to further landslides. Locals suggest that utilizing the GEC road for one-way traffic could minimize the need for hill cutting. Naresh Naik, a vehicle owner from Priol, emphasized that the government should consider the GEC road for one-way traffic, as it currently experiences less traffic flow.
An engineer, speaking on the condition of anonymity, noted that the GEC road, which extends from Farmagudi Circle to GEC ground (approximately 3 km), already has two lanes and could be widened for an additional kilometer without causing damage to the hillside or surrounding nature. From the GEC ground, the road would need to be extended along the right-hand side of the hill slope to Veling Junction for another kilometer, which would involve a downward slope. If necessary, stilts could be employed to ensure safe access to Veling, where a traffic circle is essential. This configuration would facilitate smooth navigation for traffic traveling from Panjim to Ponda.
The existing Connem-Priol NH road could then be designated for one-way traffic from Panaji to Ponda, while the extended GEC road from Farmagudi Circle to Veling Junction could accommodate one-way traffic from Ponda to Panjim. Currently, in the event of accidents or landslides at Connem, light vehicle traffic is diverted towards the GEC road, while heavy vehicles often become stuck in long queues until the situation is resolved.
A traffic official has indicated that there is no objection to studying this proposal. If the GEC road is connected to Veling, Mardol with a traffic circle, it could significantly alleviate traffic congestion in the area.
