Team Herald
PONDA: Residents of Ward no. 5 in the Kavalem panchayat faced a significant water crisis for four days following damage to the main pipeline near the Shantadurga temple. The delay in repairs was attributed to the difficulty in locating the exact site of the damage.
Fortunately, the Public Works Department (PWD) employees from the water supply division successfully repaired the pipeline, bringing relief to the local community.
However, concerns have shifted to a large trench measuring four to five metres, which has developed on the main road directly in front of the renowned Shantadurga Temple. With the Navaratri Festival set to begin on October 3, residents are increasingly anxious about the potential impact on traffic and accessibility.
Local panchayat member Yogesh Kavlekar noted that, with the help of community members, the PWD was able to repair the pipeline. He has since met with the PWD Assistant Engineer to request the urgent restoration of the road, which remains unpatched and is causing significant inconvenience, particularly for those collecting civil supply rations.
Sarpanch Manuja Naik has also addressed the issue in a letter, emphasizing the need for immediate repair work due to the disruption of essential services. She expressed concern that the situation could worsen as the festival approaches and urged authorities to ensure smooth access during this busy period.
It is important to note that thousands of devotees visit the Kavalem Shantadurga temple, and the narrow main road often leads to traffic congestion, especially at night when vehicles are parked along the road. If repairs are not carried out promptly, locals fear that the situation could lead to severe traffic jams and further hardships.
Residents are calling for immediate action to restore the main road, which also serves as a route to other popular tourist destinations, including the Ramnathi and Mahalaxmi temples, as well as the Nageshi temple in Bandora.