The trench had been dug to lay huge chambers as part of a sewage network. A part of it had been covered, while the other part was exposed. The couple, who was carrying food at the time, did not notice the exposed part as it was night. They fell in and sustained injuries, while their vehicle was damaged. Locals rushed the couple to a nearby hospital. Their damaged vehicle was removed from the trench on Thursday morning.
The JICA team continues its work even as Calangute MLA Michael Lobo stated that no digging would be carried out after May 31. The sudden rains have also caused parts of the dug areas to cave in. Further rains could lead to even more tragedies in the tourist village of Calangute. The locals want the works to be stopped, but are reluctant to do anything due to the police threatening them with jail at the behest of the government.
When contacted JICA supervisor Sidhu said, “Another week will be required to complete the digging works and to lay the tanks, etc. Thereafter, we require two more days to complete the asphalting and tarring of the damaged roads.”
