Goemkarponn desk
PORVORIM: In a shocking revelation, the Public Works Department has said that the cracks that have surfaced along the North Goa stretch from Goa Velha, Bambolim, and Guirim are within permissible limits.
PWD Minister Nilesh Cabral, in a written reply to the question tabled by Adv Carlos Fereira, said that the design and construction are carried out as per the Indian Road Congress code/ specifications, and the quality checks are carried out as per the standards.
“Numerous inspections are carried out by the Authority’s Engineer appointed by MORTH to check the quality control and other aspects of construction which consists of routine inspection, compliances,” he said.
On a query whether the Government is aware that the NH road works along the North Goa stretch from Goa Velha, Bambolim, Guirim are having cracks on the concrete less than a year from the construction of these stretches, he replied “yes sir”.
“Rigid Pavement Quality Concrete (PQC) has micro and marco cracks due to shrinkage and temperature variations in permissible limits. Micro cracks are attended by Crack and joint resealing with flexible sealant, Crack sealing with epoxy resin, Crack cross stitching, and Partial depth repairs. The macro cracks propagate throughout the depth of PQC, the entire concrete is demolished, and the entire panel is replaced,” he said.
On whether any action has been taken against the contractor and also for rectifying such shoddy work, Cabral said, “The said ongoing work wherein substantial work has been completed, and balance works are included in the Punch List. Rectification, repairs and maintenance will continue till the Defect Liability Period to ensure smooth traffic riding quality and to enhance traffic safety.”
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