MARGAO
The PWD, National Highways is rushing to complete the Western bypass project to meet the High Court deadline on the project completion.
In fact, the bypass is expected to be soon completed and commissioned either in November or December, but has the Goa government directed its agencies to prepare a comprehensive drainage plan around the Khareband-Benaulim flood plains of river Sal?
Consider this. A year ago, R K Pandey, the consultant drafted by Union Minister for Road and Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari had recommended comprehensive drainage plan for the Khareband-Benaulim flood prone areas, with focus on the de-silting of the river Sal.
In fact, Pandey had recommended construction of additional culverts to facilitate quick drainage of flood water from the Tolleaband water body into the adjoining river Sal. He has also called for development of the river Sal and the de-silting to take care of inundation of the flood prone areas.
There’s, however, no change on the ground. Barring the work of a new culvert near the Mercado shopping mall, other recommendations made by Pandey has not been given effect till date.
A senior PWD, NH official told The Goan that Pandey’s report and recommendations were forwarded to the PWD, roads and the Water Resources Department for implementation. “Pandey’s recommendations, if implemented, will indeed go a long way to mitigate floods around the Khareband-Benaulim flood plains,” the PWD official asserted.
