VASCO
A delegation from the Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) met PWD Minister Digambar Kamat to discuss urgent issues concerning traffic management at Chicalim junction and to seek an update on the ongoing Verna–Dabolim flyover project.
During the meeting, the GCCI delegation comprising Chandrakant Gawas (Chairman – GCCI Logistics Committee), Sanjay Amonkar (Director General, GCCI), Ambika Dhakhenkar (Deputy Director, GCCI) and Sanket Kaskar (Foreign Trade Officer, GCCI), highlighted the severe traffic congestion being experienced at Chicalim Junction due to the diversion of heavy commercial and freight vehicles from Mormugao Port.
The delegation pointed out that the situation had resulted in significant delays, increased safety concerns, and hardships for logistics operators, local residents, airport commuters, and the general public.
The delegation also expressed concern regarding the rise in accidents along the affected stretch and emphasised the need for immediate measures, including improved traffic management, adequate barricading of construction zones, enhanced night-time lighting, and continuous monitoring by the traffic authorities to ensure commuter safety.
With regard to the Verna–Dabolim Flyover Project, GCCI requested an update on the project’s progress, expected completion timeline, construction quality assurance measures, and other project-related details.
The delegation stressed the importance of timely completion of the project to facilitate the smooth movement of goods, improve logistics efficiency, and reduce traffic congestion in the region.
The GCCI also strongly recommended that the vacant Berth 9 at Mormugao Port be retained as a reserve berth and should not be allotted or transferred to any party, considering its potential strategic importance and future requirements of the port and logistics sector.
In its statement, the GCCI stated that during the discussions, Digambar Kamat gave a patient hearing to concerns raised by the GCCI delegation and acknowledged the importance of the issues highlighted.
He reportedly assured the delegation that he would personally look into the matter and take necessary steps to address traffic management challenges at Chicalim Junction.
He further assured that efforts would be made to expedite the completion of the ongoing Verna–Dabolim Flyover Project to ensure smoother movement of logistics transport as well as greater convenience for local commuters.
The GCCI delegation also conveyed GCCI’s commitment to extending its full cooperation and support to the government, whenever required, in matters concerning infrastructure development, logistics, trade, commerce, and the overall economic growth of Goa.
