the goan I network
MAPUSA
A lot of water has flowed under the Tar Bridge since work on the sewerage project was kick-started in Mapusa and Calangute-Baga.
Although most of the infra works have been completed, there is suspense on why the government is unable to move forward with the project.
Citizens made a lot of sacrifices when the sewerage pipeline was being laid in the middle of the roads in Mapusa and Calangute. From uneven roads to dust pollution, local residents faced the brunt.
The PWD had contracted the job to Simplex Infrastructures in 2012 and work began in April 2013. As per contract, Simplex was scheduled to complete the project in September 2015.
Six years down the line and after missing several deadlines, the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) funded project seems to be heading nowhere.
When the plan was finalized, the project cost was pegged at Rs 152.72 crore. With a total of 1,429 manholes and 1,450 inspection chambers in place, the sewerage network of 38.30 km in length has been completed in Mapusa. The Sewerage Treatment Plant at Camarkhazan, Mapusa has also been completed.
Similarly, 1,060 manholes and 1,200 inspection chambers have been completed along the 30.96 km sewerage pipeline in Calangute-Baga. The Baga STP is also ready but work on 2 intermediate sewage pumping stations is yet to be completed.
Several PWD officials attached to project were tight-lipped over completion and commissioning of the project.
PWD Chief Engineer and Project Director for JICA, Umesh Kulkarni informed that 99% of the project was completed in Bardez. “Only two pumping stations have to be set up in Calangute. Once we complete the work in totality, we will hand it over to the corporation,” Kulkarni said.
Questioning the delay and silence, locals demanded the government evaluate the project. “It’s time to evaluate the quality of work and delay in commissioning the project. The CM should take up the matter on urgent basis and question the contractors and the engineers,” said Adv Mahesh Rane, a resident of Khorlim.
