Signboards sought as fog, sharp blind curves make Chorla Ghat travel risky

A dangerous stretch of road at the Chorla Ghat, where the absence of directional signboards poses a risk to motorists.

VALPOI
The scenic Chorla Ghat, which connects the states of Goa, Karnataka, and Maharashtra, is one of the most important inter-state routes in the region.
However, the absence of adequate directional and warning signboards along the ghat section has become a serious concern for motorists and tourists travelling through the area.
Hundreds of small and large vehicles, tourist cars, and heavy trucks use the route daily. The ghat contains several sharp bends, steep descents, and narrow stretches of road.
Despite these challenges, many dangerous spots lack proper directional signs, speed-limit warnings, gradient indicators, and caution boards, increasing the risk of accidents.
Drivers entering the ghat, especially those from other states, often maintain highway speeds and may not be familiar with the road conditions ahead. The lack of advance warning signs at critical locations makes it difficult for motorists to anticipate sudden turns, steep slopes, and roadside hazards.
During the monsoon season, the situation becomes even more dangerous as dense fog frequently engulfs the area, significantly reducing visibility.
At times, even vehicles travelling a short distance ahead become difficult to see. In such conditions, reflective signboards and road safety indicators become essential for safe travel.
Several minor and major accidents have been reported on different stretches of the ghat over the years. In some cases, vehicles have lost control and crashed into roadside barriers, while others have plunged into valleys after skidding on slippery roads. The absence of adequate warning systems continues to be a matter of concern for regular commuters.
Chorla Ghat is not only an important transportation corridor but also a popular tourist destination known for its lush greenery, waterfalls, mist-covered landscapes, and rich biodiversity. Thousands of nature lovers and tourists visit the area, particularly during the monsoon season.
Residents and commuters have urged authorities to install modern directional signboards, warning signs at dangerous bends, gradient indicators, and information boards at key locations throughout the ghat section.
Reflective and illuminated signboards, similar to those used on major highways, have also been recommended to improve visibility during night-time and foggy conditions.
They have claimed that timely intervention by the administration will make travel through Chorla Ghat safer, more convenient, and free from accidents for all road users.