The newly installed automated traffic signals at the busy Navelim junction were switched off within about 40 minutes of being commissioned after they reportedly triggered severe traffic congestion, leaving commuters stranded in long queues.
The signal system was activated on Wednesday in an effort to regulate traffic at the junction. However, within minutes, vehicles began piling up on roads leading to the intersection, resulting in major delays and disruption to traffic flow.
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Several commuters were caught in the traffic jam, including Navelim MLA Ulhas Tuenkar. Following complaints from motorists and local residents, the MLA directed the Margao Traffic Cell to deactivate the signals and restore the previous traffic management system.
Speaking on the issue, Tuenkar said the automated signal system was unsuitable for the Navelim junction due to its complex road network, multiple adjoining intersections and narrow approach roads. He added that residents had also voiced concerns over the resulting congestion and urged authorities to immediately suspend the signals.
Commuters claimed that similar traffic signal experiments had been carried out at the junction in the past but were eventually abandoned after causing heavy traffic snarls.
The incident has reignited concerns over traffic planning at one of South Goa’s busiest intersections, with many residents calling for alternative solutions to ease congestion without disrupting the flow of vehicles.
