Team Herald
PONDA: Locals of Durbhat have called on the authorities to urgently address the dangerous conditions that have caused a spate of accidents and injuries to motorcyclists at the Durbhat Junction. Specifically, they have demanded the installation of concrete slabs on the metal gutters across the road, which have proven to be a major safety hazard.
Eknath Fadte, a local resident and eyewitness to the accidents, has reported that the iron grill covers currently installed on the gutters are responsible for a number of mishaps at the Junction. “We have seen too many incidents where motorcyclists have slipped on the grill covers and suffered serious injuries,” Fadte said. “It's time for the authorities to take action and install concrete slabs to prevent any more accidents from happening.”
In addition to the problems with the gutters, Fadte and other residents have pointed out several other safety concerns in the area. The Durbhat Ferry ramp, for example, has become dangerously slippery due to the accumulation of mud, leading to several injuries among passengers. Moreover, the growth of mangroves in front of the ramp has blocked the view of the parked ferry, causing confusion among commuters, and leading them to board the wrong ferry.
The trees growing alongside the road leading to the ferry point have also become a hazard, as they have grown tall enough to touch the overhead power lines, leading to power outages in the area.
Despite the many safety concerns, it appears that some action is being taken to address the issue of the gutters. According to Babu Naik, a local panch member, an order has already been placed for the installation of concrete slabs on the gutters.
“We are aware of the accidents that have been occurring at Durbhat Junction, and we are taking steps to address the situation,” Naik said. “We hope that the installation of concrete slabs will help prevent any further injuries or accidents in the area.”