MAPUSA
As rains lash Goa, dangerous potholes dotting key roads have once again exposed the glaring lapses in road maintenance across the State.
One such hazardous crater along the Canca–Mapusa district road – a vital link to major beach destinations like Calangute, Candolim, Baga, Anjuna and Vagator – continues to remain unrepaired despite repeated public concern.
During steady downpours and especially after nightfall, these deep waterlogged potholes become nearly invisible, posing a serious risk to unsuspecting two-wheeler riders and motorists.
“This pothole existed even during the last monsoon and was temporarily filled with gravel. The entire summer passed without any action from the local PWD division,” said a local resident from Canca.
Tourists and locals alike use this route to access some of the State’s most visited coastal villages. However, bad upkeep of the roads paints a grim picture of infrastructure in a State that brands itself as India’s premier tourist destination.
"The failure to fix these potholes – despite clear weather in the pre-monsoon months – reflects the casual attitude of the authorities. One wrong move and you’re on the ground. It’s a risk we take every day now," said Rajan Amonkar, a daily commuter.
Earlier this month, The Goan had reported a similar large pothole opposite the football ground in Duler, Mapusa, which remained unattended for weeks until a concerned local businessman voluntarily filled it with concrete to avert an accident.
The incident underscored the growing frustration among citizens over government inaction.
A retired PWD engineer, speaking on condition of anonymity, admitted the department lacks a functional monitoring mechanism to track and respond to damaged roads.
“The system is reactive, not proactive. Ideally, junior engineers should be tasked with inspecting all roads in their jurisdiction at least once a month, especially before and during the monsoon,” he said.
He also emphasised the role of public participation.
“Citizens must report potholes or damaged roads through official channels. The PWD has an app for complaints, but it’s underutilised. Awareness and timely reporting can make a real difference,” he added.
Despite having engineers on the payroll to oversee maintenance and safety of roads, the Public Works Department has come under sharp criticism for its failure to act swiftly and effectively.
With the monsoon intensifying, the risk of road accidents due to potholes is only expected to rise unless urgent steps are taken by the authorities.
