MAPUSA
Conceding that the Peddem highway junction has become dangerous both for motorists and pedestrians, Mapusa MLA Joshua D’Souza said efforts were underway to find an early solution to the problem and ease the situation at the key intersection.
D’Souza on Wednesday also informed that there was a proposal to install signals at the junction.
“We are in the process of holding a review meeting over the Peddem highway junction and other issues along the route. The area has become a deathtrap. We have put up various proposals before the highway officials. We are meeting very soon to discuss the issues,” D’Souza said, while responding to a query on the rise in mishaps at the highway junction.
Two days ago, The Goan had highlighted the issue of how motorists and pedestrians were facing grave difficulties while crossing the highway junction making it prone to accidents.
D’Souza disclosed that when the construction was going on, he had vociferously opposed the opening of the highway at the Peddem junction but the villagers were firm on leaving it open for their convenience.
“Today we are in a situation. People did not realise it then. When the road was narrow it seemed very easy to cross. Now, with the broadened highway along with the service road it’s quite a distance to travel/cross,” he said.
He disclosed that there were plans to install signals at the junction but wasn’t sure whether it would help to regulate the traffic at the busy junction.
He further informed about a plan to construct an overpass for school children and an underpass at a location between Peddem junction and Karaswaddo junction.
He also said that it was impossible to build a flyover at Peddem junction but there was a possibility to construct one at Preeti International Hotel where enough land was available.
“We have also proposed a pedestrian crossing at Karaswaddo for people who work in an industrial estate to cross. The highway authorities will submit their reports and accordingly we will take decisions,” he informed.
