PONDA: Residents of Ponda have expressed serious concerns over the dangerous road conditions at Amigos Junction in Curti. The massive, vertically-cut hill, with soft soil spilling out of it, poses a significant risk of landslides, endangering commuters, they say. Locals are urgently calling for an inspection of the junction by the Disaster Management team and PWD Engineers, to implement safety measures and prevent a potential disaster on the National Highway. Additionally, the truck parking area at the junction increases the risk of accidents.
Every year, the accumulation of rainwater at the underpass Junction causes traffic chaos. This critical junction connects roads towards Khandepar, Belagavi, Panjim, Margao, and Ponda.
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Rocky Dias, a local resident, criticised the vertical hill cutting, warning that during heavy rains, the soft soil could collapse, causing road blockages, accidents, and severe traffic jams. He alleged that the hill was cut for the vested interests of certain individuals without considering the potential dangers. “Government officials need to take proper care in road widening projects. The lack of a gutter system and truck parking all along this junction further exacerbate the risks to commuters,” he said.
Viraj Sapre, a social worker, warned of filing a police complaint if a fatal accident occurs at the site. He stressed the importance of an immediate inspection by PWD Engineers, the Deputy Collector, and the Disaster Management team. Sapre pointed out that the site marks the beginning of the four-lane expansion of the Bethora-Borim road and requires urgent attention to prevent a disaster.
Sapre also recalled a major landslide five years ago at Kerya-Khandepar that halted NH traffic, forcing a diversion to internal roads. “The ongoing highway work at Amigos Junction lacks proper signboards, and two people have already lost their lives during the recent widening efforts,” said Sapre. He also noted that the slippery road conditions due to rain and mud further increase the risks at the site.
