Pre-poll push: Infra works rolled out across Mapusa

With just weeks to go for the announcement of municipal elections, a slew of public works projects has been lined up across the Mapusa constituency.

The Public Works Department (PWD) has proposed multiple infrastructure projects, including the improvement and hotmixing of a 1.10-km stretch of road at Cunchelim at an estimated cost of Rs 1.75 crore.

In addition, internal roads in Mapusa are set to be upgraded through hotmixing works worth Rs 38.79 lakh.

Further, the department will undertake the construction of a 50-metre retaining wall at the grounds of St Britto High School in Mapusa, at an estimated cost of Rs 20.95 lakh, addressing safety concerns following its recent collapse.

Another significant project includes the improvement and beautification of a parking lot located behind St Anthony Church in Siolim, under the jurisdiction of VP Siolim-Marna.

The project, estimated at Rs 65.96 lakh, is expected to ease parking congestion and enhance the overall aesthetics of the area.

PWD officials maintained that these works are part of routine infrastructure development aimed at improving road conditions and public amenities.

“The proposals have been in the pipeline and are being executed as per approvals. The focus is on improving connectivity, safety and basic infrastructure,” a senior PWD engineer said.

However, the timing of these announcements – barely a month ahead of the municipal polls – has raised eyebrows among sections of the public. Some locals view the sudden push as politically motivated.

“Roads have been in bad condition for years, and now everything is happening at once. While we welcome the works, the timing does make one wonder,” said Siddharth Naik, a Mapusa resident.

Others, however, expressed relief that long-pending issues are finally being addressed.

“If the roads improve and infrastructure gets better, it benefits everyone. We just hope the work is completed on time and with good quality,” Peter Fernandes, another local added.