MAPUSA
With Ganesh Chaturthi fast approaching, the Public Works Department (PWD) is under pressure to fulfil its promise of making Goa pothole-free by September 7.
Despite the initial momentum slowing down, PWD officials remain confident that they will meet the deadline.
Although the process of filling potholes has been progressing slowly, officials expect work to pick up pace within the next two days.
Many roads are still marred by potholes, causing concern among residents as they prepare for the upcoming festival.
The heavy rainfall in July exacerbated the situation, creating numerous potholes and making several roads difficult to navigate.
The deteriorating road conditions are a significant worry for the public, who are counting on the repairs being completed in time for the festivities.
PWD Principal Chief Engineer (PCE) Uttam Parsekar stated that work on repairing the potholes has already begun in several areas and is expected to be completed before Chaturthi.
The repairs are being carried out using bitumen emulsion, a material suitable for slightly wet conditions.
“Since the major rains have subsided, the patchwork will withstand the lesser intensity of the rain,” Parsekar said.
On the National Highway (NH) 66, significant progress has been made.
An official from PWD (NH) reported that potholes on the stretch from Guirim to Porvorim have been repaired, while work is ongoing from Patradevi to Carrasvaddo.
The small section near the new culvert in Guirim is scheduled to be fixed with concrete, with traffic diversions planned to facilitate the work.
In response to the slow progress, PCE Parsekar revealed that show-cause notices have been issued to around 60 to 70 contractors, most of whom are now actively working on the repairs.
He added that engineers would face similar notices if contractors fail to meet the deadlines.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant recently issued directives to the PWD to ensure that all potholes on major and minor roads are repaired before the festival.
He also mandated the issuance of show-cause notices to contractors responsible for severely damaged roads.
As the clock ticks down to the festival, residents are hoping for smoother roads to celebrate the festivities without the worry of navigating treacherous potholes.
