VASCO
Fear of landslides continues to worry commuters using the Harbour Road in Vasco, with residents and daily travellers expressing concern that this monsoon could trigger soil slips and falling trees along the vulnerable stretch. Although authorities have begun inspections, many feel urgent preventive action is needed before rainfall worsens the situation.
PWD Minister Digambar Kamat and Mormugao MLA Sankalp Amonkar inspected the site on Thursday evening to assess the condition of the hill cutting and discuss immediate safety measures. The visit came amid growing public concern over the stability of the slope overlooking the busy road.
The Harbour Road is an important route used by hundreds of people daily. Apart from motorists entering Mormugao Port through Gate No. 1, it is also used by visitors to Customs House and police personnel travelling to Coastal Police Station located on the hill. Any disruption could affect public movement as well as essential services.
Residents said the hill has been cut almost vertically, leaving loose soil and exposed tree roots in several areas. Some trees are visibly tilted, while others have roots hanging in the air, increasing fears of collapse during heavy rainfall.
Locals also recalled that a natural spring once flowed through the area, where people would stop to collect drinking water. They said the spring still flows, with water now running across parts of the road, which may further weaken the slope.
Residents warned that even small landslides could block traffic for hours, while a major slope failure or falling tree could be dangerous for passing vehicles and pedestrians. They have urged the government to immediately strengthen the stretch, improve drainage, and install protective measures before the monsoon intensifies.
During the inspection, the PWD Minister said the works had been taken up by National Highways Authority of India (NHAI). However, NHAI later clarified that the project is being executed by the State PWD (NH Wing) and funded by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH).
