Team Herald
MARGAO: The retaining wall of a small bridge at Mungul- Seraulim collapsed due to heavy rains, causing traffic congestion on the main road leading to Colva Beach. The edge of the bridge now poses a significant danger to pedestrians and motorists, and locals are pushing for barricades to be put up.
If you enjoyed reading this article, you can help support our journalism by adding OHeraldo as a preferred source.
The retaining wall, which was constructed around 20 years ago, has deteriorated, with the edge of the road also crumbling into the water body below. The retaining wall on the other side of the bridge has also weakened and requires urgent attention. Additionally, a water pipe beneath the bridge has burst, prompting concerned department officials to plan an inspection and subsequent action.
Upon hearing the news, many locals visited the spot and expressed concern over the crumbling road and wall. They demanded immediate repairs to ease traffic and prevent accidents.
Traffic police were deployed to the site to regulate the smooth movement of traffic, and a Margao fire traffic officer, along with local police, was also present to assess the situation.
Some locals raised concerns about the quality of materials used by the contractor and emphasised the need for immediate action to prevent accidents on this busy road. They pointed out that the retaining wall on the other side of the bridge has also become weak and called on the Public Works Department (PWD) to ensure proper construction with quality materials. There were also concerns about the lack of regular inspections by PWD authorities on retaining walls that have aged and weakened.
One social worker mentioned that the retaining wall was constructed on the bridge in 2003. Traffic police officers confirmed that they would station personnel on either side of the road, given its importance as a route to Colva and other coastal villages.
