MARGAO: Concerns are mounting over the precarious state of the Khareband Junction in Benaulim, near the site of the Western Bypass construction, where an open trench poses a grave risk to road-users, particularly during night time. The junction, which serves as a crucial link for commuters heading to Navelim, Benaulim, Colva, Cavelossim, and Margao, has become a hotbed of disorganized and unsupervised construction work.
Brimming with red soil and plastic litter, the trench, akin to an open grave, lacks any barricades or covering. Kim Miranda, who frequently traverses this road, lamented the lack of consideration given to pedestrians. “Without any footpaths, are locals expected to walk in the middle of the road?” she remarked. Adding to the chaos, the absence of traffic signages and speed limit board exacerbates the risks at the junction. Motorists and drivers are left confused due to the lack of proper guidance. During night time, the situation worsens as the absence of street lights further compromises the safety of commuters. Custodio Fernandes, a waiter who commutes between Navelim and Benaulim said, “Late at night, it becomes difficult to navigate the stretch through the pitch darkness. There are no traffic police personnel present, and this situation has been ongoing for several months.”
Margao MLA Digambar Kamat acknowledged the severity of the issue but passed the buck to his Benaulim counterpart. “The Khareband bridge marks the end of my constituency, and the situation is dire. The specific area falls under the responsibility of Benaulim MLA Venzy Viegas, who must address the matter. If assistance is required, I am willing to lend a hand,” Kamat told OHeraldo in a phone conversation.
Despite repeated requests, the
local contractor refused to comment. However, privately, he conceded that the stretch requires better supervision.
