This is in reference to my letter published in O Heraldo on 27th February 2023, highlighting the deplorable condition of the road at Velsao, Dando-Mollo, in the Cortalim Constituency. The 400-metre stretch from the Mathany Saldanha Bridge to the dead end, which passes through housing areas, is in a dire state and requires immediate attention.
The road surface is severely damaged, with the top layer of hot-mix completely worn out, exposing the second layer. Loose asphalt from the eroded surface has scattered along the entire stretch, making the road slippery and posing a grave danger to all vehicles. The cracks and uneven texture amplify the risk of accidents, particularly during the monsoons, when the absence of proper drainage leads to further deterioration.
Rainwater flowing from nearby hills inundates the residential areas, soaking into the road surface and accelerating its decay. Proper gutters along residential areas are essential to channel this water and prevent inconvenience to local residents. Unfortunately, despite repeated efforts to draw the attention of the Velsao-Pale-Issorcim Village Panchayat, the issue remains unaddressed.
While the Panchayat has reportedly forwarded this matter to the Zilla Parishad (ZP) and the Public Works Department (PWD), there has been no tangible progress. The road urgently needs a fresh layer of hot-mix and proper drainage to prevent further damage.
On behalf of the residents of Velsao, I earnestly appeal to the Cortalim MLA and the Sarpanch to prioritise this matter and expedite the necessary repairs. Failure to address the issue before the monsoon will likely result in the complete collapse of the road, exacerbating the hardships faced by the community. Immediate action is not just a request, but a necessity.