Team Herald
PONDA: The three bypass roads on the outskirts of Ponda, constructed nearly two decades ago to facilitate smooth traffic flow, have recently become hotspots for truck parking.
The affected routes include Dhavalim-Farmagudi, Curti-Ponda, and Curti-Bethora-Borim. Due to the lack of a designated truck parking hub, these bypasses are often used for parking, which can lead to accidents and pose risks to public safety.
Roland Martins, Convenor of GOACAN, addressed the media during a recent meeting with officials in Ponda. He noted that while the government has identified land for a truck parking hub, basic facilities for truck drivers are urgently needed in the interim, particularly regarding cleanliness.
Martins explained that the surrounding industrial estates are bustling with transportation of raw materials and finished goods, making Ponda a convenient location for truckers. Consequently, truck parking is prevalent on all three bypass roads.
He emphasized the necessity of establishing a truck terminus in Goa. Until such a facility is created, he urged the government to provide essential amenities, including washrooms, toilets, and rest areas for drivers.
To address the situation, Martins announced that GOACAN will reach out to authorities to conduct a survey of truck parking, as well as the number of trucks and drivers in the area. This data will help facilitate the provision of mobile toilet facilities. He also expressed concern that the lack of facilities should not create a nuisance for local residents and pledged to write to the Collector and relevant departments to advocate for roadside amenities for truck drivers.