PERNEM: The stretch of National Highway 66 spanning from Malpe to Poroscodem, has plunged into darkness, raising serious concerns about the potential accidents if prompt action is not taken.
The absence of streetlights along this stretch has transformed it into a hazardous area, particularly due to ongoing expansion work that diverts traffic into a makeshift one-way route. However, the incomplete nature of the diversion, coupled with the lack of illumination leaves commuters confused and in fear for their lives and limbs.
The gravity of the situation has escalated to the point where vehicles could veer off the road and plummet into adjacent rivulets or fields. Shockingly, despite past incidents that claimed the lives of over 20 individuals on NH 66 spanning from Patradevi to Dhargalim, authorities seem to remain apathetic, transforming this highway segment into a perilous death trap.
The poor execution of the highway expansion project, coupled with the unchecked movement of heavy vehicles within the ongoing construction zone, adds to the challenges for motorists, while the absence of streetlights and proper signage make matters worse.
Commencing in 2018, the highway expansion project has borne tragic consequences due to the irresponsible actions of authorities concerned.
Since then, over 20 lives have been lost. The harrowing statistics reveal a grim reality – 51 accidents in 2018, causing 70 major injuries and 9 fatalities; 52 accidents in 2019, with 41 injuries and 8 deaths; 4 fatalities in 2020; 5 fatal accidents in 2021; and 5 fatal accidents since 2022, with numerous severe injuries still in recovery.
Despite locals’ protests and highway blockades in Pernem, urging authorities to prevent accidents and fatalities, substandard work, lacking proper signboards, service roads and safety measures at accident-prone zones persists.
Instances of road collapse, specifically near the Porascadem Railway Bridge, further highlights the shoddy workmanship of contractors involved in the project. Formal complaints and representations submitted to the authorities have failed to evoke stringent action against the highway contractor.
“The negligence of the highway authorities has resulted in heartbreaking losses for numerous families. The lack of appropriate signage and illumination, combined with frequent road diversions, has created a bewildering and unsafe environment along the Malpe to Poroscodem route,” said Ashish Gad, a local.
