PONDA: Residents of Ponda are expressing anxiety and frustration over the lack of cautionary signboards at the interstate KTC Bus stand where the widening work of the four-lane National Highway is currently underway. This issue has gained heightened attention following a tragic accident on June 11, when a motorcycle pilot lost his life after being crushed under a crane at the site.
The absence of essential signboards such as ‘work in progress’ and ‘go slow’ has sparked outrage among Ponda residents. They argue that these signboards are necessary for alerting commuters about road construction activities, preventing accidents, and ensuring safety on the roads.
Vishal Fadte, a concerned resident, criticized the authorities and contractors for not taking adequate measures despite the fatal accident and the risks posed by heavy machinery used for the construction work. “Fatal accidents are occurring at an alarming rate in Ponda. In the last twenty days, six people have lost their lives here, including one at this bus stand. The authorities must direct the contractor to display sign boards and cordon off areas where heavy machinery is being operated,” said Fadte. Currently, the widening work spans from Safa Masjid to Farmagudi, involving infrastructure developments such as landfilling and construction of underpasses and flyovers near the KTC Bus stand. These activities have added to the complexity and potential hazards for commuters and passengers visiting the interstate bus stand.
In response to these concerns, local residents and community leaders are urging authorities to immediately intervene. They are calling for the prompt installation of cautionary sign boards to alert everyone about the construction activities and associated risks.
Ponda bus stop gets toilets, boards displaying bus timings
