the goan I network
MAPUSA
Traffic woes of people in and around Aldona are not likely to end any sooner.
The work on much-trumpeted overbridge/underpass project along the NH17 at Bastora junction is moving at a snail's pace.
The project, which is a part of the national highway expansion plan, was started in January 2016 and was expected to be completed within 18 months.
It has already missed one deadline.
For people living in Aldona and beyond, the underpass is expected to come as big relief from constant traffic chaos at the junction.
The highway officials claim that foundation and piling work has been completed and with work expected to pick up speed, the project would be completed within four months.
"With the crucial job of foundation and piling completed, the remaining work will be done in quick time. After Chaturthi we will start work on overbuilding. We are expecting to complete the project by this December-end," said Assistant Engineer, PWD (highways) A K Sadanand.
He also said the contractor has been given a construction schedule and if he goes by it, the target of completing the project can be achieved.
However, a visit to the site indicated that work was dragging even as the staff present there refused to commit on progress made so far.
One of the engineers present at the site disclosed that work couldn't be completed on time due to slushy condition on the ground on account of the rains.
Earlier, work on the project was delayed due to time taken to shift utility services like
the water pipelines and electricity poles.
The total length of the overbridge is 20 metres with a six-lane span along the NH17 while the six-metre high underpass will be four-laned for the to and and fro movement of vehicular traffic along the Aldona-Mapusa route.
The total cost of the underpass is pegged at Rs 29.42 crore. The underpass was the need of the hour, as number of accidents have taken place along the stretch near the four-road Bastora junction. The area has also been susceptible to constant traffic jams due to the busy intersection with one road leading to villages en route to Aldona.
