FRIDAY, MAY 17, 2024
Team Herald
MARGAO: Extending the deadline to complete all tasks regarding the long-pending Western Bypass project by September 30 this year, the High Court of Bombay at Goa has directed the contractor to strictly adhere to the agreed schedule.
During a recent hearing on the project status, the High Court cited the expired timeline for completing the Western Bypass section and emphasised the recurrent need for extensions, this time due to awaiting permission from the Konkan Railway Corporation Ltd (KRCL) for a crucial section.
The court acknowledged KRCL’s approval via an April 27 notification, specifying commencement from May 2 to May 29 for the mentioned stretch, aligning with train schedules.
Emphasising strict adherence, the court stressed that neither the State nor the contractor should delay the process.
The Advocate General assured completion of the pending work by September 30 without further extensions, highlighting simultaneous progress on other sections.
Acknowledging the parallel work, the court emphasised on the compliance with the given schedule to avoid further delays.
Considering past delays, the court directed that the timeline be adhered to strictly, underlining the need for commitment.
With KRCL's approval for work commencement, the court dismissed excuses and directed PWD engineers to oversee the progress and ensure timely completion by September 30.
The court mandated periodic reports from the executive engineer to maintain accountability and seriousness about meeting deadlines.
The executive engineer has also been directed to submit the first report by June 10, 2024, providing an advance copy to the amicus curiae.
Notably, the Western Bypass project from Benaulim to Seraulim via Mungul has been stalled for years, with the court previously setting a December 31, 2023 deadline for completion.
Granting an extension until September 30, the court scheduled a progress review for June 12, emphasising the need for consistent updates on project status.
It is to be noted that there have been widespread protests in Benaulim with villagers including farmers and fishermen opposing the construction of the bypass stretch through their village via embankments.
However, the government refused to pay heed to their demands and the low-lying fields, which have been catchment areas for years, were filled with mud for the bypass construction work.
