Team Herald
MARGAO: A wide range of issues, including the challenges faced by locals with ongoing National Highway expansion works, were discussed at the District Level Road Safety and Traffic Management Committee meeting held at the South Goa Collectorate on Wednesday. The meeting was chaired by South Goa MP Captain Viriato Fernandes, alongside the District Collector and Superintendent of Police (SP), with the presence of senior officials from several government departments, as well as Sarpanchas and the Chairperson of the Margao Municipal Council (MMC).
A key issue raised during the meeting was the lack of consultation between the National Highway authorities, local residents, and government departments such as the Traffic Police. The Traffic Police particularly criticised the design of subways and the handling of junctions along the Western Bypass, a portion of which is set to be commissioned soon. To address these concerns, it was decided that a site inspection would be carried out to identify the placement of rumblers at accident-prone stretches of the bypass. Instructions were given to expedite repairs of street lighting on the Nuvem stretch of the bypass, within 15 days.
With the Western Bypass set to become the primary highway, locals from Nuvem questioned the necessity of ongoing expansion works on the old highway, particularly as it involves the demolition of their properties, such as compound walls.
The highway expansion at Dandewaddo, Chinchinim, was another issue raised, with the village panchayat delegation advocating for a new alignment. The MP supported their request and questioned why the highway authorities disregarded their suggestions, opting for the current alignment instead. Fernandes added that the proposed bypass route by the panchayat would not only save properties but also ease traffic congestion in the area.
The meeting also highlighted the contributions of GOACAN convenor Roland Martins, whose suggestions led to the decision to ensure sufficient funding to implement recommendations from these inspections. Martins also raised the issue of fake helmets, with Fernandes emphasising the need for better awareness campaigns. The MP stated that the Bureau of Indian Standards should establish an office in Goa to enforce helmet regulations.
Additionally, the meeting saw a discussion on creating awareness regarding insurance benefits for families of victims involved in fatal accidents, as well as incentives for Good Samaritans who help accident victims by taking them to the nearest hospital for immediate medical treatment.