PANAJI: Asserting to meet its March 31 deadline, Imagine Panaji Smart City Development Ltd (IPSCDL) today announced that nine major projects are ongoing under Smart City Mission in Panaji with 26 being already completed.
IPSCDL CEO Sanjit Rodrigues stated that of the total 35 projects, nine projects, including roadworks, are expected to be completed within the project’s deadline of March 31 set by the Union Ministry, while works such as landscaping and pavements will take a bit longer, extending until June 30.
“March 31 is the deadline for all road works to be completed. I agree, pipes were damaged during Smart City works, but our response was quick to repair them, maybe not as per people's expectations,” he said.
Rodrigues said the first phase of roadworks was completed ahead of schedule by January 20, and the second phase is set to finish by February 7.
The third phase, covering stretches in the market area, will be completed by February 28, while the final phase, which includes roads around the Secretariat, is expected to conclude by March 31.
He informed that the sewage works, including connections between the old and new lines, are progressing smoothly and are expected to be completed by February 20.
The team is working to ensure that the project stays on course, despite minor challenges faced in connecting utility lines and completing drainage works, he added.
Furthermore, the work of the Ribandar Ferry Ramp, which began in December, is slated for completion by June 15, although slight delays are expected.
Rodrigues assured that efforts are being made to minimize disruptions and avoid road closures. "While we are on track with roadworks, landscaping and finishing touches like pavements will extend until June 30," he added.
Speaking about the projects which are neglected after completion Rodrigues stated that a policy for maintaining Smart City works post-completion will be developed.
