The chaotic and unplanned excavation works opposite Caculo Mall in Panjim have drawn sharp criticism as part of the Smart City project. Despite failing to meet previous deadlines, the authorities have continued to dig up roads, gutters, footpaths, and pipelines without a proper plan, causing significant disruption and confusion.
On Monday, Smart City officials were observed digging trenches across the road from Caculo Mall. The haphazard manner of the work has resulted in large pits, affecting the sewerage system and causing raw sewage to flow backwards, creating an unsanitary mess.
This unprofessionalism and lack of foresight have highlighted the negligence and laid-back attitude of the Smart City officials. Initially, the deadline was set on May 31 for the completion of the entire Smart City works but Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant extended the works at Caculo Junction to June 5. However, with only two days left until the revised deadline, the progress suggests that the work is far from completion.
The impending monsoon season exacerbates the urgency of the situation. If the works are not completed on time, it will pose severe challenges for both Smart City officials and the public, potentially turning the area into a hazardous zone during heavy rains. The current state of affairs has left residents and commuters frustrated, calling for immediate and more organized action from the authorities.
