TEAM HERALD
CURCHOREM: Residents of Sanvordem-Curchorem and neighbouring areas are agitated as the water pipeline from Shirvoi-Quepem to Guddemol-Sanvoredem, which has been laid under the JICA scheme, is causing hardships to people and motorists.
JICA authorities had laid a new pipeline on the existing water pipeline on the narrow foot bridge, thereby further narrowing the pathway.
Earlier, some labourers had damaged the old water pipeline while laying the new pipeline over it, resulting in the supply of muddy water.
The same pipeline which passes on the railway over bridge, which is hardly 200 metres away from river Zuari, also creates hurdles for the motorists and pedestrians. Many accidents have taken place on the railway over-bridge.
When contacted, PWD Ponda Executive Engineer (Roads) Vijay Mardolkar said no NOC had been issued to JICA to lay pipelines on the side of the bridges.
“In fact, the pipelines should be placed on angles from outside the bridge. The work of JICA had damaged the roads at several places,” said Mardolkar and added that joint inspection with JICA officials will be conducted on January 6.
Speaking to media, JICA assistant engineer Shetty said the work is being carried as per the directions of the PWD authorities concerned.
Sanvordem Sarpanch Sanjay Naik said a resolution was passed during last Gram Sabha opposing the passing of pipeline from the side of the bridges and it was conveyed to JICA authorities. However, later during a joint meeting with PWD and JICA, it was decided to allow the pipeline from the sides of the bridge.
Some senior citizens from the area also criticized the work of JICA authorities as they face difficulties while going for walk in the morning and evening, as the pipeline laid on the bridge has narrowed the width of the passage.
