The ongoing Smart City missions in Panaji have become a source of frustration for the residents and office goes. Promises made in the past linger in the air as the chaos on the roads reaches new levels of inconvenience. The initial assurances indicated that all projects would be completed by May 31, yet as the deadline ended months ago, it is clear that Panaji is far from realizing the benefits of these initiatives.
The Imagine Panaji City Development Limited (IPCDL) has seemingly disregarded the commitments made to both the residents and, importantly, the High Court. Roads that once facilitated smooth traffic flow are now familiar sights of heavy machinery and disarray, leaving commuters to navigate through a maze of construction.
Every corner shows signs of disruption, from the areas near the historic ferry wharf to the bustling vicinity of the Bank of Baroda. These extensive road closures have left many questioning the efficiency and management of the Smart City works.
The parking situation in Panaji is an additional layer of complexity. With limited parking slots throughout the city, the thoroughfare from the ferry wharf to the Bank of Baroda is often packed with vehicles.
Every day at a time around 200 bikes and at least 35 four-wheelers were parked along this city road.
This rampant absence of available parking options forces many to park indiscriminately, blocking essential pathways and contributing to the traffic mess.
Compounding the issue is the apparent disconnect between law enforcement and traffic regulation.
The Goa traffic police have taken action against two-wheelers parked haphazardly in Panaji, yet they seem to turn a blind eye to the double parking and overall chaos at critical locations, such as Miramar, especially near Sharda Mandir school during pick-up times.
It raises questions about the approach taken by the police, who may prioritize convenience over consistent law enforcement. The perception that wealthier parents associated with the school evade scrutiny only intensifies public frustration, suggesting that not all citizens are held to the same standards.
The traffic chaos that continues to plague Panaji as the Smart City initiative progresses is a clear call for reform.
Residents are asking for clarity on timelines and enforcement of parking regulations. How can a project that is designed to enhance urban living contribute to such a mess? One solution could be a more transparent communication strategy, where the IPCDL keeps the public informed about progress and timelines. Engaging the community in discussions about ongoing works could foster a sense of joint ownership and trust.
Ultimately, the development of a Smart City should lead to improved infrastructure and a better quality of urban life.
What Panaji currently witnesses, however, is a cacophony of uncertainty, traffic havoc, and a frustrated public yearning for change. As the deadline looms, all involved must prioritize accountability, timely execution of projects, and the well-being of Panaji’s citizens. It’s time for action — because the future of Panaji’s infrastructure and traffic management should not be a tangled mess.
SURAJ BNANDREKAR
Editor, Goemkarponn
