To also examine bypass proposal to improve safety
MAPUSA
In a bid to curb the rising number of accidents along the dangerous Ganeshpuri–Siolim–Marna road stretch, the Public Works Department (PWD) has decided to undertake road widening works and construct a retaining wall at the steep slope identified as a major hazard point.
The decision was taken following a joint inspection conducted on Monday by PWD officials and members of the North Goa District Road Safety Committee after repeated mishaps were reported in the area.
During the inspection, officials assessed several safety concerns including poor visibility, steep gradients, inadequate signage, drainage issues, and the absence of sufficient crash barriers along the route.
PWD Executive Engineer Satyendra Bhobe said the department had already initiated preliminary widening work on the stretch and additional strengthening measures would soon follow.
“Nothing much can be done to reduce the gradient of the steep slope. However, widening of the road and construction of a retaining wall and road barrier will be carried out to improve safety,” Bhobe said.
He further revealed that the department would revisit an earlier proposal for the construction of a bypass road in the area.
“There was a proposal for a bypass road in this stretch. We have now been instructed to examine the feasibility of the proposal and take up the work if found viable,” he added.
As an immediate preventive measure, authorities also decided to install height barriers on both sides of the road to restrict the movement of heavy and oversized vehicles, which are believed to be contributing significantly to accidents on the steep stretch.
The inspection was undertaken after concerns were raised by the Siolim Civic & Consumer Forum (SCCF), whose members highlighted the growing safety risks faced by motorists and local residents using the route daily.
The road stretch has witnessed several accidents over the years. Just last week, a truck reportedly suffered brake failure and rammed into a private property after crashing through a compound wall along the Siolim–Marna main road. Fortunately, no casualties were reported in the incident.
Local residents have repeatedly demanded urgent intervention, claiming that the narrow road, sharp descent, and movement of heavy vehicles have made the stretch increasingly dangerous, especially during monsoon conditions.
Among those present during the inspection were Superintending Engineer, PWD, Jude Carvalho, SCCF representative Gregory D’Souza and other officials from the road safety committee.
