Traffic signal installed in Porvorim

PORVORIM

With the installation of another traffic signal near Ashwin Garage in Alto Porvorim, the 3-km stretch of the Porvorim highway now has the unique distinction of having six traffic signals either in operation or awaiting permission from authorities.

What makes this initiative also uncommon is that all six traffic signals have not been installed through government funds, but have been funded by a Socorro-based businessman, Sanjay Jain.

The four traffic signals already in operation are located near Porvorim Bazaar (Sangolda-Socorro junction), Holy Family Church, O’Coqueiro junction and Teen Building.

The two traffic signals that await permission from the north Goa collector are near Ashwin Garage and Mall de Goa.

Speaking to The Goan, Porvorim MLA Rohan Khaunte said the stretch of highway between Porvorim bazaar and Mandovi Bridge had become an accident prone zone.

“Accidents along this stretch of road had become a regular feature since no speed limits for the vehicular traffic are in force,” said Khaunte.

“Hence, it was absolutely essential to install traffic signals along this stretch of road to reduce accidents. Once the traffic signals at Alto -Porvorim near Ashwin Garage and Mall de Goa become operational in January, there will be a substantial reduction in road accidents..”

Acknowledging the personal contribution of Jain in setting up the traffic signals, Khaunte said: “All six signals have been installed by Sanjay Jain, a businessman from Socorro, on his own and no government funds were involved in this venture.”

“Now, there is need to install CCTV cameras at all these traffic signals to keep a check on road violations. Better traffic management is of utmost importance for public safety,” Khaunte added.

When contacted, Jain also emphasised the importance of public safety. “It is for this reason that I took the initiative, at the request of the Porvorim MLA, to install these six traffic signals for better traffic management,” explained Jain.