Ponda abuzz with questions over stability of local infrastructure

PONDA:  In the backdrop of the Savordem footbridge collapse, there is much discussion about the condition of infrastructure. According to locals in Ponda the government never considers it until death or tragedy occurs. 

People are worried about many dilapidated buildings, bridge and structures which are in a dilapidated condition. They are frequented by vendors as they have no option. This forces the general public to visit them exposing a large number of people to danger. In Ponda, there are several such structures which need urgent attention. They include the Usgao PDA market where a large number of people frequent. Despite an agitation and market bandh observed by Usgao locals, the SGPDA market at Tisk Usgao remains without maintenance. Locals believe it can collapse. Around 48 shopkeepers conduct their business in the market at their own risk besides the hundreds who shop there. 

Though the market was constructed in 1993, it is in a dilapidated state due to a lack of maintenance by the government. Despite demanding it for a few years and a one-day market bandh staged by vendors  in Usgao in May 2015, the government not only failed to take note of the vendors’ grievances but also failed to pay attention to maintenance, repair or undertake renovation to generate revenue from the Shops operating in the Building. 

“We are doing business at grave risk to life and property. We don’t know when this building will collapse. Hence, we request the government to take our grievances seriously,” say vendors and shopkeepers in Usgao SG PDA Market.

The fish and vegetable vendors also supported the bandh as the shed from which they are operating is also in a dilapidated state.

The hall on the first floor of the building has not been used for a decade due to a lack of maintenance and the problem had been highlighted several times in the past.

“We had brought these problems to the notice of SGPDA, but nothing was done to resolve it,” said some vendors.

During the monsoon the broken roof sheets have added to the woes of vendors and shopkeepers, as water seeps into the hall during rains.

 The two-storey Shastri Hall building of PMC where the library and shops existed in a dilapidated state but four shop owners occupy it and put their lives and those who visit them in great danger. PMC passed a resolution to demolish it several years ago but the building still stands dangerously. 

Recently the Goa Engineering College Students warned the PMC about the weakened structure but it is still being used. However, recently Chairperson of PMC Radhika Naik said the GSIDC has approved fund of Rs 8 crore for the reconstruction of new building by setting up Shastri Mall in place of this building. 

The Old Portuguese era Bailey bridge located parallel to the new Bridge at Borim, is in a precarious condition and is frequented by tourists. Besides, many other people also visit the place although access is blocked by laterite stones blocking the entry of vehicles. Many people climb the fence and go to the broken bridge. In case anyone loses balance or slips, it is likely the person will fall into the river. Recently the bridge on the Lotlim side collapsed after a barge dashed against it. Though river navigation has issued warnings, many people, canoe owners and barges are seen travelling through the Zuvari River under the bridge which increases the risk.