Porvorim, a bustling hub known for its strategic location and known as a satellite town for the capital city Panaji, is currently engulfed in chaos, all thanks to the ongoing construction of a much-needed flyover by the National Highways Authority.
While the project from the Majestic Hotel to the Guirim highway promises to alleviate traffic congestion in the long term, the immediate reality is anything but orderly.
Commuters and local businesses are facing an uphill battle as the construction project unfolds in a seemingly haphazard manner, raising concerns about both safety and efficiency.
First and foremost, a critical question arises: where is the plan? The authorities had ample time to map out a strategy for one of the busiest stretches of roadway in the region, yet the execution appears to lack basic foresight. Vehicles are being diverted to makeshift routes that barely resemble a proper road. Instead of smooth detours, commuters are subjected to a torture ride on paths that are both narrow and poorly maintained.
The absence of a pakka road compounds the problem, leaving motorists frustrated and anxious as they navigate unmarked terrains.
Safety has become a paramount issue during this construction phase, yet it seems to have taken a backseat. There is a glaring lack of precautions for commuter safety.
The diversion zones lack proper signage, and without the presence of law enforcement to manage traffic, chaos reigns supreme.
Parked vehicles block access, further narrowing the already limited space and exacerbating the situation. With no policemen on the scene to clear the way, commuters are left to fend for themselves, navigating through a maze of obstacles while risking collisions and accidents.
The impact of the construction extends beyond just inconvenience for commuters; local businesses are also suffering the consequences.
Storefronts that once enjoyed steady foot traffic now find themselves cut off due to the strains of detours and inaccessible roads. A vibrant area that thrives on local commerce is slowly dwindling as potential customers avoid the chaos surrounding the flyover construction. Without adequate resources and planning from the authorities to support the local economy during this transition, many businesses risk closing doors permanently.
Looking ahead, concerns are mounting regarding the next phase of construction, which will see work commencing from O Coqueiro Circle to Guirim.
Given the already tight confines of the road in this area, it is feared that the situation could worsen significantly.
Residents recall the nightmarish scenarios faced during the construction of the Zuari bridge a couple of years ago in Cortalim, and many wonder if we are headed for a repeat of such chaos.
It is imperative that the concerned authorities take immediate action to address these glaring oversights. Effective communication, timely management, and a clear plan for the construction could potentially mitigate the ongoing distress.
For the time being, the residents and commuters of Porvorim brace themselves as they navigate through this maze of turmoil, hoping that the chaos will pave the way for a smoother future once the flyover is completed. The community deserves better than this incessant chaos; it is time for the authorities to step up and prioritize safety, efficiency, and support.
SURAJ BNANDREKAR
Editor, Goemkarponn
