Impact to increase as work reaches O’Coqueiro junction
MAPUSA
Traffic restrictions currently in place to facilitate construction of the elevated corridor on NH-66 have had minimal impact on vehicular movement so far, but greater challenges are expected as work progresses towards the O’Coqueiro junction, said Executive Engineer, PWD (NH), Gajanan Desai.
Desai said that while motorists and pedestrians may face some inconvenience as the stretch remains an active construction site, efforts are being made to ensure smooth movement for the public.
“Although certain restrictions have been implemented, they have not significantly affected traffic flow. Light motor vehicles are still allowed to use the normal route. Only heavy vehicles have been completely barred from this stretch of NH-66 and have been diverted via Karrasvaddo to prevent congestion,” Desai said.
He clarified that the restrictions do not amount to a total closure of the highway.
“Additional lanes have been provided along service roads to maintain vehicular movement,” he added.
However, Desai cautioned that the situation would become more challenging once construction reaches the O’Coqueiro junction.
“At that stage, traffic will have to be diverted through internal roads,” he said.
Providing an update on the project’s progress, the Executive Engineer said that nearly 60 per cent of the superstructure work, involving the launching of segments, has already been completed.
He added that the erection of the superstructure is expected to be completed by May or June this year, provided work continues at the current pace.
“We are trying to complete the entire project by December this year, though it will depend on support from the traffic department,” Desai said.
The original deadline for the project was October 2026, though contractors had earlier indicated that they would attempt to finish the work by April 2026.
Desai also noted that work gained momentum from November after a slower pace in September and October.
“If all goes well, launching of segments should be completed by May or June,” he reiterated.
On ancillary works, the Executive Engineer said that hotmixing of service roads has been completed, except for small stretches near Mall de Goa and a few other locations, where work remains pending.
