Daijiworld Media Network - Panaji

Panaji, May 1: The six-lane elevated corridor at Porvorim is likely to be opened to traffic ahead of schedule, with the state government aiming for completion before Ganesh Chaturthi, PWD Minister Digambar Kamat said on Thursday.

Speaking at the commencement of the hot-mixing phase of the project, Kamat said he has requested the contractor to plan the inauguration on the eve of the festival. The development marks a key milestone in the over Rs 450 crore project.

The 5.1-km-long corridor has been progressing at a rapid pace, prompting authorities to revise earlier timelines. If completed in September, the flyover would be ready ahead of the previously set October-November deadline.

“We want to send a message that PWD is committed to timely delivery. We are aiming to complete major projects before deadlines,” Kamat said, adding that efforts are also underway to expedite work on the Dabolim bridge.

The minister credited local representatives, including Porvorim MLA and Tourism Minister Rohan Khaunte and Saligao MLA Kedar Naik, for closely monitoring the project and pushing for faster execution.

Kamat also assured that there has been no compromise on quality, stating that feedback on the construction work has been positive.

Khaunte said the early completion of the corridor would ease traffic congestion and significantly benefit tourism. “Once operational, it will serve as a key route for tourists heading to the beach belt and for travellers going towards the airport,” he noted.