the goan I network
CANACONA
A portion of the pillar at the Portuguese-era bridge linking Galgibaga with Poinguinim gave way at Mahalwada-Poinguinim on Monday, triggering alarm among locals in the area.
Deputy Speaker and Canacona MLA Isidore Fernandes has now directed the PWD to inspect the bridge for safety by Tuesday and take all precautionary measures to safeguard the structure.
According to reports, people noticed laterite stones falling off from one side of the middle pillar of the bridge at Mahalwada-Poinguinim. Concerned locals quickly placed stones on the bridge to caution unsuspecting motorists to avoid moving on the weakened portion of the bridge.
The weak bridge is being considered by the government for reconstruction since the last few years and is reportedly pending for financial approval.
News of the portion of the pillar giving way spread like wildfire and worried residents alerted Deputy Speaker and Canacona MLA Isidore Fernandes about the dangers to motorists and residents.
Residents also feared that if the bridge were to collapse, residents of Mahalwada, extending up to Galgibaga, would be abruptly cut off from Poinguinim village.
When contacted Fernandes said the file for the work to reconstruct the bridge has been approved, but is pending for financial sanctions.
“I have directed the PWD to inspect the bridge for safety earliest by Tuesday and take all precautionary measures,” said Fernandes.
According to residents, this Portuguese-era bridge had outlived its purpose about three decades ago.
“The bridge had undergone only one facelift, some concrete repair work, without disturbing its original pillars about 20 years ago,” said a resident.
The bridge, which is situated near the house of Poinguinim ZP Dr Pushpa Aiya at Mahalwada, deteriorated further over the passage of time and with the increase in traffic.
Following constant fears by residents, the PWD had prepared estimates for a new bridge about 5 years ago, which would eventually replace the Portuguese-era bridge.
