PANAJI
The Ponda‑side up‑ramp at Merces junction leading to the Atal Setu has been closed to traffic up to July 5 to facilitate rectification of the bridge’s expansion joint, according to a public notice issued by the Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation (GSIDC).
An order has also been passed by the District Magistrate, North Goa. During the closure period, all vehicular traffic heading towards Porvorim will be diverted through the New Mandovi Bridge and the Merces junction up‑ramp to access the Atal Setu.
Officials said the rectification work was necessary to ensure safety and durability of the bridge structure. The expansion joint, which absorbs movement and stress, requires urgent repair to prevent further damage.
Traffic police have been deployed to regulate flow at Merces junction and along diversion routes and authorities have appealed to motorists to cooperate and follow instructions to avoid congestion.
The Atal Setu, inaugurated in 2019, is one of Goa’s most important links across the Mandovi, connecting Panaji to Porvorim and beyond. The Merces junction up‑ramp is a key access point for vehicles coming from Ponda and the eastern hinterland.
The GSIDC has urged the public to bear with the temporary disruption, stressing that the repair work is essential for long‑term safety. The ramp will reopen to traffic on July 6, once rectification is complete.
