Old Mandovi Bridge closed for repairs for fortnight

Repairs underway on the Old Mandovi Bridge.

Photo Credits: Narayan Pissurlenkar

PANAJI

The Public Works Department (PWD) closed the Old Mandovi Bridge for all vehicular traffic on Saturday, diverting vehicles to the New Mandovi Bridge and Atal Setu. With the new traffic arrangement expected to cause congestion on weekdays, traffic police have advised parents of Class XII students appearing for board exams in and around  Panaji and Porvorim to leave early for timely arrival at their respective examination centers.  

“Due to the closure of the Old Mandovi Bridge, parents of students appearing for the Class XII board exams in and around Panaji and Porvorim are requested to start early to ensure students reach their examination centers on time,” stated a note from the Office of the SP Traffic. The closure of the bridge is expected for 15 days.

While traffic from Panaji remained smooth on day 1, largely due to the closure of most offices, congestion was observed on the Porvorim side. The Traffic police noted that motorists overtaking and cutting lanes worsened the situation.  

“Motorists (except two-wheelers) from Porvorim side desiring to proceed towards Ponda - Bambolim - South Goa and vice versa are requested to make use of Atal Setu to prevent congestion on New Mandovi Bridge,” it further added.

A notification from the Executive Engineer, WD VII (NH), PWD, issued on January 29, informed about the closure of the Old Mandovi Bridge for repairs. The ongoing project, part of the NH(O) Annual Plan 2023-24, includes overlaying a new surface, implementing safety measures, and painting both the new and old Mandovi bridges.

The PWD explained that the work involves milling the existing surface, laying mastic asphalt, and applying bituminous concrete, which requires the bridge’s closure for smooth and efficient completion.