Driving on the roads of Panaji and other areas of Goa these days has become hell for citizens. Though road accidents are increasing, and a recent incident of a student falling into a giant pit in Panaji highlights the perennial issues with the roads. Life is no longer safe for someone on the Goan roads. Recently, a 62-year-old person died because the ambulance could not reach his house in Sanguem due to bad roads.
It’s not a matter of choice but strict enforcement of laws and rules to maintain road safety, with due consideration given to vulnerabilities that lead to fatal crashes and serious injuries. It confirms public fears that not only are Goan roads death traps but also road accidents have emerged as a major public health concern. As much to blame are irresponsible drivers or corrupt RTO officials and traffic police, who facilitate such reckless driving by either issuing driving licenses to those with little driving skills or ignoring traffic violations and bad roads.
It’s time that the government addresses the root problem: the abysmal condition of our roads. It is well known that bribes from road construction are an important source of funds for political parties. Thus, politicians, officials, and contractors cannot escape responsibility for road accidents becoming a public health hazard. Neither is there anyone to take a hard look and act against such malaise?
