The prestigious Atal Setu, showcasing the best of India's engineering and construction prowess has been beset with problems from day one. The 3.1 km-long cable-stayed bridge built by one of India's biggest and best construction companies develops potholes with every bout of rain and is in need of constant repairs. It is pertinent to note that GSIDC had overseen the whole design and execution process of the structure but all that has come to zilch; the state government has now roped in IIT Madras to study the defects and suggest remedial measures which in a way is admission of guilt. Factors like high rainfall, humidity, salinity and temperature variations which are unique to Goa's climate have not been factored in the design process. GSIDC officials are now offering poor excuses and blaming the imported adhesion bonding chemical and inadequate waterproofing layer for the fiasco. The fact of the matter is that there has been wilful neglect of the project management aspect or corruption. An independent court monitored investigation team should be appointed to get to the bottom of the matter. There is more to it than meets the eye..... definitely.
