Traffic moves at a snail's pace at the Chimbel junction throughout the day, not just during peak hours. This raises the question: why wasn't the flyover bridge constructed in 2004 during the highway expansion on the bypass road? The partial construction, with just two pillars built, seems like a ploy to escalate costs.
The Old Goa to Panaji via Chimbel bypass was intended to alleviate congestion on the narrow Old Goa-Ribandar route. However, due to Smart City works, the old road is now in poor condition, forcing more traffic onto the bypass and causing accidents.
Despite the presence of traffic police during peak hours, management seems ineffective. They are often seen on their cellphones, neglecting their duty to assist pedestrians crossing from Ribandar to Chimbel.
Ironically, these officers penalize motorcyclists for using cellphones but are lenient with their own personnel. The situation exacerbates when our Chief Minister passes by, as the officers suddenly become vigilant, leaving ordinary commuters to suffer.
The ongoing traffic woes waste fuel and time, affecting those traveling to Panaji daily. Authorities must address these hardships and expedite the flyover construction before the St. Francis Xavier Exposition.
