Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji
Panaji, Sept 8: Public Works Department (PWD) Minister Digambar Kamat has issued firm instructions that service roads must be fully completed before any flyover or bridge construction begins in Goa, emphasizing commuter convenience and road safety.
During a surprise visit to the PWD office in Baina and an on-site inspection at Vales Junction in Dabolim, Kamat made it clear that the quality and timely delivery of road infrastructure is his top priority. He specifically directed contractors to hotmix both service roads at Vales Junction by September 30, weather permitting.
“My priority is to make the best roads. They have promised me that by September 30, both the roads will be hotmixed — unless there is continuous heavy rain,” Kamat stated during the inspection.
In addition to the roadwork, Kamat instructed PWD officials to ensure that diversion routes for two-wheelers and cars are also completed and approved by the traffic police before they are opened to the public. “Wherever bridge work starts, service roads have to be perfect. I don’t want any complaints from commuters,” he warned.
Transport Minister Mauvin Godinho, who accompanied Kamat on the inspection, raised urgent safety concerns at the junction, where two fatalities were recently reported. He insisted on fool-proof barricades equipped with reflective signs and proper lighting, especially for night-time visibility.
“This is a very important junction where many accidents have happened. Barricades must be visible and effective to prevent access to restricted areas. We can’t afford another tragedy,” Godinho said.
Praising Kamat for his swift response, Godinho added, “The moment I called him, he agreed instantly to visit the site. I’m happy that he has issued clear directives. We expect to see significant progress by September 30. We’ll review the status around the 24th or 25th to ensure everything is on track.”
The ministers’ joint visit underscores a renewed push to prioritize road safety, planning, and timely execution of infrastructure work ahead of major projects in the state.