Urgent Need for a Bypass Road to Calangute Coastal Belt

As the peak tourist season unfolds in Goa, the picturesque Calangute coastal belt is facing a pressing issue that demands immediate attention—the dire need for a bypass road. The stretched arteries of the busy CHOGM road, particularly from the O Coqueiro circle at Porvorim, have turned into bottlenecks, suffocating traffic flow and leading to chaotic travel experiences.
The Calangute area, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife, draws tourists from all over the globe, making it one of the busiest tourist hubs in the state.
However, reaching Calangute has become increasingly daunting due to the ongoing construction project for a flyover along the National Highway at Porvorim.
This infrastructure work, while aimed at improving future traffic conditions, has significantly worsened the current scenario. The 13-kilometer journey from Panjim to Calangute now takes more than an hour, a time frame that is unacceptable for both residents and visitors alike.
Adding to the frustration, a significant portion of the state police force has been deployed to Old Goa for the Exposition arrangements.
This has led to an unfortunate decrease in law enforcement presence in other key areas, exacerbating the traffic chaos at strategic points such as Porvorim, Sangolda, and Saligao.
The situation is particularly critical at the entrance near St. Alex Church in Calangute, creating a frustrating bottleneck that leaves commuters stranded for long periods.
The cumulative effects of these issues raise an urgent need for the construction of a bypass road to mitigate traffic congestion.
A bypass would not only alleviate the pressure on CHOGM road but also facilitate smoother access to the coastal belt, benefitting both tourists and locals. Such a road could redirect heavy vehicular traffic away from congested lanes, making travel quicker and more efficient while enhancing the overall experience for visitors who come to enjoy Goa’s natural beauty.
An immediate and thorough assessment of the proposed bypass route is needed, evaluating its feasibility, potential costs, and the required timeline for completion.
Stakeholder engagement, including input from local communities and businesses, will be paramount to create a solution that addresses the concerns of all parties involved. Additionally, environmental assessments must be carried out to ensure that the construction of a bypass aligns with sustainable development principles and preserves the unique ecosystem that Goa is famed for.
Furthermore, enhancing public transport options during the season could alleviate traffic flows while the bypass road is being planned and constructed. More regular shuttle services or dedicated bus lanes could encourage both tourists and residents to opt for public transportation instead of personal vehicles, thus reducing congestion.
The urgent need for a bypass road to the Calangute coastal belt cannot be overstated. As Goa’s popularity as a tourist destination continues to grow, it is essential to invest in infrastructure that can keep pace with this growth.
Effective traffic management solutions, including the construction of a bypass, will enhance the visitor experience, preserve the local charm of the area, and ensure that both locals and tourists can navigate the roads with greater ease. The time to act is now.