Construction of the Merces-Old Goa NH4A bypass road along the Kadamba plateau could help the future development of the National Highways but at the moment it continues to be a cause of nuisance to residents of Chimbel.
The narrow Ribandar road alongside the river is seeing an increased flow of traffic with light motor vehicles and two-wheelers diverted towards the Ribandar junction from the interior road to proceed to Old Goa. But, there is no policemen posted to direct the vehicles, the only guide being a signboard that is often ignored by motorists.
Proceeding towards Old Goa, via NH 4A from Merces circle, after about a kilometre near the Chapel of Immaculate Conception, motorists are met with a sign stating: ‘Two Wheelers And Cars Prohibited’ thus forcing them to take a left and motoring down the narrow road which meets the Ribandar Junction. Meanwhile, traffic proceeding to Panjim on NH4A too has to travel on the narrow riverside road putting more pressure on the road.
Speaking to Herald, Deputy Superintendent of Police – Traffic Cell, D G P Angle said the diversion has been ordered following instructions from the Highway Zonal In-charge. “The Highway Zonal In-charge has instructed the Traffic Cell to divert the flow of light motor vehicles and two-wheelers towards the Ribandar junction. Heavy vehicles are allowed to travel via NH4A,” he said, adding that it was for safety reasons.
“The reason for the diversion is due to dust pollution because of construction and wet mud following rainfall which makes it difficult for two-wheelers and light motor vehicles to gain traction over loose mud and marshy soil,” Angle said.
With the Panjim-Ribandar road along the River Mandovi being known for accidents due to its narrow width, diversion of vehicles could make matters worse. “The diversion will be enforced till November 30, 2015,” DySP Angle said.
