Goa is an international tourist destination, but it does not showcase much of its local culture or architecture. Instead, in the 21st century, it often promotes casinos and nightlife through advertisements aimed at domestic tourists. There are also illegal advertising boards with steel frames erected on road dividers without proper checks for safety or for the distraction they may cause to riders and drivers. The Public Works Department (PWD), which grants permission for such structures, is bypassing Indian Roads Congress (IRC) guidelines, which is concerning for public safety.
In areas such as Mapusa, Arpora and the Siolim road, many advertisement boards do not follow IRC standards. In contrast, the boards along the Cortalim“Agassaim junction to Vasco road appear to be better placed, as they are installed at the extreme edge of the road and are less likely to distract drivers. It is time for the Bombay High Court in Goa to revisit the PIL and direct the PWD engineers to ensure compliance with safety norms. With the Member Secretary of the North Goa Road Safety Committee now based in Panaji, steps should be taken to ensure that local panchayats and the PWD strictly follow Indian Roads Congress guidelines.
