PONDA: The approaching Ganesh Chaturthi festivities have been overshadowed by a pressing concern as the heavy monsoon has transformed once motorable roads into perilous death traps. Local residents are now vehemently calling upon the Public Works Department (PWD) to swiftly address the dire state of these roads, both for the convenience of daily commuters and the safety of devotees embarking on their Chaturthi shopping expeditions.
Vishal Fadte, a concerned citizen residing in Ponda, has drawn attention to the escalating urgency of the situation. With only three weeks remaining for Ganesh Chaturthi on September 19, Fadte emphasized the critical need for repairing the deplorable roads that have resulted from ongoing development projects in Ponda. Navigating the current roads marred by potholes has become a harrowing experience for residents and visitors alike. Fadte articulated, “Especially during Chaturthi, it’s imperative that the government takes measures to restore the roads, given the substantial influx of people flocking to Matoli Bazaar and various shops. The existing pothole-riddled roads pose a serious risk of accidents and injuries.”
The consequences of neglecting road maintenance have already manifested in unfortunate incidents. “Numerous commuters, especially motorcyclists, have sustained fractures due to the treacherous condition of Ponda’s roads. The situation exacerbates when rainwater fills the potholes, making it nearly impossible to gauge their depth, leading to several accidents,” Fadte revealed.
The adverse effects of these road conditions extend beyond accidents. “Many individuals are reporting back pain stemming from their rides along Ponda’s pothole-ridden roads. The ongoing projects such as sewerage and underground power cabling have contributed to the deterioration of roads in this specific area,” Fadte remarked.
As the clock ticks down to the festivities, residents have begun frequenting Ponda’s markets for their seasonal shopping needs. However, this activity has brought with it traffic congestion and the inevitable issue of chaotic parking.
