MARGAO: The ongoing drainage construction works directly opposite the South Goa Police headquarters have severely exacerbated traffic congestion in the area, rendering the efforts of traffic police and other authorities ineffective. This development has created a significant bottleneck, particularly frustrating for students, and complicating daily traffic management.
The placement of slabs and construction materials on the busy road following the opening of the gutter has further worsened the already problematic traffic situation. This issue becomes particularly hazardous during school hours, endangering students and other road users. The construction debris and obstacles complicate traffic management efforts near the South Goa Police headquarters, posing safety hazards along the route for students and other pedestrians.
Nearby gadda owners have reported a significant loss of business due to the incomplete drainage works, which have now stretched beyond ten days. The Public Works Department contractor responsible for the project has cited continuous rainfall as the reason for the delay.
Citizens are raising serious concerns about why the drainage works were initiated during the monsoon season. The presence of construction materials, combined with parked two-wheelers and cars on the other side of the road, has blocked regular traffic movement near the construction site. Despite the efforts of the traffic police, severe congestion persists due to these obstacles and the ongoing incomplete drainage works.
Social activist Iftiyaz Shaikh expressed serious concerns to reporters, highlighting the significant danger the current traffic mess poses to students and the general public.
“This is clear evidence of inadequate planning,” stated Shaikh. He criticised the authorities for failing to conduct the drainage work before the onset of the monsoon, leading to severe traffic congestion and safety hazards for pedestrians. Labelling the decision to initiate drainage construction during the monsoon as foolish, he emphasized the need for better planning and execution by government authorities.
