VASCO
The Congress in Cortalim has demanded the deployment of Traffic Police at the Cortalim Cross junction and also appealed to authorities to take precautionary measures to prevent accidents after a fatal accident was reported at the site on Sunday evening.
Congress leader Olencio Simoes, the Block Congress Committee, youth leader Peter Fernandes and Mahila leader Andrea D’Mello said the bridge contractor had violated the procedures of the tender.
“As per the tender, the contractor is supposed to provide cautionary signboards regarding diversion of traffic and obtain the necessary permission from the District Collector South for diversion of NH66 road at Arvale-Cortalim junction or even to open and close any other traffic lanes," said Simoes.
"It is shocking to note that the traffic police are perpetually absent in a very busy traffic junction used especially by students and senior citizens. These people are exposed to speeding vehicles on the highway and thus become victims of minor and major accidents.”
Simoes alleged that due to criminal negligence by the bridge contractor and authorities concerned, one woman lost her life on Sunday, while her husband is battling for life in hospital.
"We demand immediate action by authorities concerned to prevent loss of life, failing which the people of Cortalim will be forced to resort to a Rasta Roko," warned Simoes.
