the goan I network
SANGUEM
Accusing the PWD of failing to erect signboards on either side of the weakened bridge at Costi-Sanguem, locals on Sunday blocked the road on either side of the bridge to prevent movement of heavy vehicles.
The villagers had recently petitioned PWD authorities and the Quepem Deputy Collector to prevent heavy vehicles from moving on the weak bridge, as severe cracks had been seen on it. They fear the foundation of the bridge has weakened.
Acting on their complaints, Sanguem Deputy Collector Ajay Gaude along with PWD officials had inspected the bridge. Gaude had reportedly submitted his report to the higher authorities after verifying the complaint filed by villagers. He also suggested closure of the bridge for heavy vehicles for some time.
Incidentally, PWD officials, who were part of the inspection team, had also suggested in their report the need to close the bridge as it had weakened over time.
However, no signboards notifying the closure of bridge for heavy vehicles were erected and this angered the locals.
The villagers decided to take law into their hands by blocking the road on either side of the bridge by placing laterite stones. “Locals have blocked the road basically for the safety of motorists and people using the bridge,” justified a villager, Adv Amar Naik.
“The bridge needs urgent repairs. The movement of heavy vehicles on the bridge has further deteriorated its condition,” Naik added.
