MARGAO: With the onset of the monsoon season, residents of Benaulim, Seraulim, and Mungul are anxious about potential flooding, particularly in low-lying areas such as Tolleabandh. This concern arises from the under-construction Western Bypass, which has previously contributed to flooding during heavy rains in the past couple of years.
Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai recently called for an inspection with the Public Works Department (PWD), highlighting a reverse flow issue where water is not draining as it should, leading to increased flooding risks. Farmers from Seraulim and Benaulim have also raised these concerns repeatedly.
Before the monsoon began, the South Goa district administration had instructed the PWD and other relevant authorities to take precautionary measures to mitigate flooding risks linked to the Western Bypass construction. Areas identified as flood-prone due to the construction activities were to be equipped with necessary protective arrangements.
The district administration acknowledged the flooding potential in regions where land had been filled with mud as part of the bypass construction. Srinet Kothwale, Additional Collector-I, stated that authorities have been directed to monitor and remain vigilant regarding flood-prone areas not just in Benaulim but throughout the district during the monsoon season.
Locals from Seraulim have demanded that the government address their concerns over repeated instances of waterlogging of the Seraulim underpass, which has posed difficulties to commuters.
Locals had lamented that even in cases of moderate rainfall, the underpass would get flooded, and raised concerns about health issues too, as it takes time for water to drain, leaving the subway waterlogged for days