Team Herald
MARGAO: Residents of Benaulim have submitted a petition to the panchayat demanding that the PWD rectify the poorly designed culvert near the Western bypass, close to the Mercado Mall. They pointed out that work on the culvert has been stalled for the past nine months, raising concerns about potential hazards once the monsoon season begins.
Social activist Santan Pereira, speaking on behalf of the residents, highlighted the risks posed by the incomplete culvert. “Today, we have lodged our formal complaint with the Benaulim panchayat regarding the danger this structure poses to commuters due to the PWD’s flawed design. It has been nine months, and the rectification work is yet to resume. We hope the authorities complete the work before the onset of the monsoon,” Pereira stated.
He cited several accidents at the site that had resulted in serious injuries, attributing them to the culvert's faulty alignment and the absence of speed breakers on the service roads. Pereira stressed that public safety was at stake and urged the Benaulim sarpanch to intervene. He further insisted that the PWD should not merely resume work on the existing design but instead come up with a new, more suitable plan. Frustration was also expressed over the authorities’ inaction despite media coverage of past accidents.
It may be recalled that Benaulim MLA Venzy Viegas had recently raised similar concerns during the recently-concluded Assembly session, urging the government to take immediate action.