Say internal roads not designed to handle highway traffic
Cars queue up on a narrow road in Alto Dabolim.
VASCO
Residents of Anand Estate and Jairam Nagar in Alto-Dabolim have strongly objected to the proposed diversion of NH-566 traffic through their residential lanes, warning that the move poses serious threats to public safety, health and the overall quality of life in the area.
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has proposed rerouting traffic from Vales Junction to Vishal Mart via an internal road behind the Naval Store Depot to facilitate flyover construction.
Residents, however, have said the narrow internal roads were never designed to handle highway traffic and would place lives at risk if the diversion is implemented.
Following a memorandum submitted by residents, the Collector of South Goa had directed a joint site inspection involving officials from the NHAI, the Deputy Collector’s office, the Traffic Police and the Public Works Department. The inspection was carried out on December 2. However, residents said the inspection report is yet to be submitted, raising concerns over delays, lack of transparency and accountability in resolving the issue.
Residents alleged that despite objections, road shoulders have already been damaged by the PWD to widen internal roads, forcing vehicles to pass dangerously close to houses. They said this has increased risks for children, senior citizens, pregnant women and pedestrians.
The residents have also sought clarification from the Chicalim Panchayat on whether a No Objection Certificate was issued for the road alterations. They said no response has been received so far.
Among the key concerns highlighted by residents are unsafe narrow stretches with blind corners, rising chances of accidents and congestion, and significant delays in emergency medical response. According to residents, ambulance travel time has increased to 40–50 minutes from the earlier 10 minutes, placing vulnerable residents at serious risk. Noise and air pollution, structural vibrations to houses, and difficulties for utility maintenance and emergency services were also flagged.
Residents have demanded an immediate halt to what they described as unauthorised road works, restoration of damaged road shoulders, and a clear assurance that NH-566 traffic will not be diverted through residential areas. They have also sought that flyover construction be restricted to night hours between 9 pm and 6 am.
Residents said repeated trial diversions had already resulted in long traffic queues and multiple accidents, clearly showing that the route is unsuitable for highway traffic. They said they remain hopeful that the Collector of South Goa will intervene firmly to protect public safety and community welfare.
