Commuters using the Borim bridge on a regular basis feel that it is about time a second bridge was built before something untoward happens on the existing one. The authorities are coy over the matter but the people assert the need for a second platform and preparation time for the same should begin immediately. A local Marathi daily recently carried an article regarding a threat to the structure and this has caused panic among locals. The PWD has taken cognizance of the locals and have initiated repair work. This is the sole connection from Ponda and neighbouring talukas to South Goa.
Due to heavy traffic, people fear that the condition of the structure has weakened. But when contacted, the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) engineers mentioned that the design is similar to Zuari bridge. According to a consultant, the situation of the bridge has not deteriorated and repair work is ongoing at an early stage to strengthen the life span by using the external prestressing technique wherein cables are used to support the deck. A similar mechanism has been used for the Zuari structure.
The bridge at Borim is a vital link connecting Goa’s two districts as it felicitates the movement of heavy vehicles after they were banned from using the Zuari bridge due to its deteriorating state. The Zuari is around 411 meters in length and was built in 1983 but after excessive wear and tear in the subsequent years, it has deteriorated.
Borim Sarpanch, Sanjay Gavde, along with locals feel the need for a second parallel bridge across the river. “Since the last ten years, there has been heavy traffic plying on this structure causing an over burden,” he said. Former Sarpanch, Sunil Savkar also chimed in with support saying, “A new four lane bridge parallel to the existing one is the need of the hour. In this way, we can decongest Borim village which often suffers a traffic problem.”
People who use the bridge say that it often vibrates. However, engineers note that some sort of flexibility is a must at its joints. When asked about a provision or a proposal for a new structure, the executive engineer of the NH Div XV, Mohan Karki said, “We have been working on it for a while so that the government sanctions the construction of a parallel bridge at Borim to relieve the old one. It has stood for almost three decades and has served its purpose.”
When questioned about the fear factor, Karki, along with assistant engineer Shashikant Desai and junior engineer Chanda Pawar asserted that there was no need for worry. The consultant appointed to look after the bridge suggested repair work which includes strengthening and providing stability to it. At present, the bridge undergoing repair work costs Rs 10 crore.
Prestressing will be carried out to the main deck so as to strengthen it. The PWD office has prepared three alternatives as of now for a parallel bridge. Everything however is at a nascent stage. The terms of reference have been sent to the Ministry of Transport for a feasibility study. After receiving an approval, the government will ask the consultant to prepare a detailed report. A green signal is still awaited.
