The glaring absence of traffic police in many parts of Goa, particularly along the Chogm Road at Porvorim, is proving to be a serious problem for law-abiding citizens. While commuters grapple with chaos, traffic violators seem to be having a field day.
What was once a well-planned stretch has now descended into disorder. Roadside violations are rampant—vehicles are parked indiscriminately, often right under ‘No Parking’ signs, with no fear of reprisal. A number of kiosks have mushroomed along the road, with authorities conveniently turning a blind eye to these blatant illegalities. What’s worse, a mini fish market and fruit vendors have taken over these no-parking zones, converting public space into private business spots.
The situation begs a question: If the traffic department claims it has been issuing challans to violators, how is it that a mango vendor has been allowed to park his vehicle in a clearly demarcated no-parking zone for over a month without consequence? Can the Porvorim police or the traffic department justify their inaction? Or are we to believe that selective enforcement is being allowed for pecuniary reasons?
These violations are not only mocking the law but also causing frequent traffic jams. It’s always the everyday commuter who ends up suffering due to the lack of accountability.
It’s high time the traffic cell deployed officers along these roads to actively monitor and penalise violators, as well as evict illegal vendors occupying the roadside. The argument that junior cops are not authorised to issue challans should not be an excuse for complete inaction. Even their visible presence on the road can serve as a deterrent, instilling discipline among drivers and reducing the risk of road accidents.
The current situation is a clear breakdown in basic civic management. The authorities must act swiftly to restore order and show that the law still holds meaning on Goa’s roads.