A delegation of Navelim citizens that called on Power officials to demand restoration of roads dug up for laying underground power cables.
Photo Credits: Santosh Mirajkar
MARGAO
Citizens from Navelim on Monday demanded that the Power Department restore the road dug up to lay underground cables and ensure public safety measures in the constituency.
Aquem Baixo Sarpanch Danny Fernandes, Aam Aadmi Party leader Siddesh Bhagat, along with a delegation of citizens, called on the Assistant Engineer in charge of the Navelim constituency to draw the department’s attention to the growing inconvenience and safety concerns arising from the prolonged underground electricity cable-laying work in the locality.
During the interaction, the delegation acknowledged the necessity of this underground cabling work to improve the region's power infrastructure. They, however, pointed out that the extended duration and poor post-digging management have caused serious disruptions.
Referring to the frequent power outages, the Aquem Baixo Sarpanch pointed out that the area has been facing continuous power cuts, severely affecting household chores, small businesses, and students preparing for exams.
Bhagat, on the other hand, stressed the unsafe road conditions. He said roads remain dug up due to underground cable installation, resulting in uneven surfaces, with inadequate warning signs or barricades, increasing the risk of road accidents, especially for two-wheeler riders and pedestrians.
He said the exposed sites have become a daily hazard, particularly during night hours due to the absence of lighting or reflectors. “With the monsoon season fast approaching, this situation is expected to worsen, potentially leading to waterlogging, further damage to roads, and increased risk to life and property,” he added.
The delegation suggested immediate restoration and resurfacing of the roads where the underground cable work is complete, and installation of safety measures, including barricades, reflective signage, and proper lighting around ongoing work sites.
They have also called for proper coordination with the concerned departments to minimise power disruptions during this period.
